The Mediating and Moderating Effects of Types of Internet Use in the Relationship between Age and Cognitive Function among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
- Author:
Kyungwon CHOI
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Korean Journal of Health Promotion 2024;24(2):74-82
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:EN
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Abstract:
Background:This paper examines whether various types of internet use mediated or moderated the relationship between age and cognitive function.
Methods:Using 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans, the data of 8,639 adults aged 65 or over were analyzed by complex sample analysis using chi-square test, t-test, multiple regression analysis, and Sobel’s test.
Results:All types of internet use were significantly associated with cognitive function and played a significant mediating effect in the relationship between age and cognitive function. Internet use for information searching was the most protective for cognitive function (β=1.902, P<0.001), while Internet use for interpersonal communication exhibited the greatest mediating effect in the relationship between age and cognitive function (Age: β=–0.131, P<0.001→ β=–0.079, P<0.001). The influence of age on cognitive function moderated by all types of internet use.
Conclusions:This underscores the need to consider various types of internet use when creating nonpharmacological interventions aimed at delaying age-associated cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults.
