Social connectedness and digital literacy in later life: the mediating roles of perceived barriers and social integration

Abstract

Background Population aging and digital transformation are two major global trends; however, the potential pathways through which social connectedness may be associated with digital literacy in later life remain underexplored. This study examined the mediating roles of perceived barriers and social integration in the relationship between social connectedness and digital literacy among Chinese older adults. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 505 middle-aged and older educated Chinese adults aged 50–70 years. Digital literacy was assessed across five dimensions. Social connectedness was measured using the Lubben Social Network Scale-6, perceived barriers using an 8-item scale adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model, and social integration using a Chinese version of the social participation scale. Logistic regression and mediation analyses were performed using bootstrap resampling, with demographic covariates controlled. Results Regression results showed that social connectedness was significantly associated with digital literacy (β = 0.22, p < 0.001). Mediation analyses revealed that both perceived barriers (indirect effect: 0.0305, 95% CI [0.0120–0.0520]) and social integration (indirect effect: 0.1265, 95% CI [0.0940–0.1600]) served as significant mediators, with social integration accounting for a substantially larger proportion of the total effect (60.6% vs. 14.6%). Conclusion These findings suggest that social connectedness is associated with digital literacy through two separate mediating pathways: higher levels of perceived barriers and lower levels of social integration. Interventions may wish to consider addressing both technological anxiety and social network strengthening, particularly for older adults with lower social connectedness.