A new study published June 24 in PLOS Global Public Health by Hossam Ali-Hassan of York University and colleagues finds that different digital communication tools are associated with mental health outcomes among older adults in Canada.
The research analyzed data from the 2022 Canadian Internet Use Survey, focusing on adults aged 55 and older. The survey included responses from 13,536 participants and was weighted to represent the entire Canadian population within this age group. Data collected covered online communication activities over the previous three months, self-reported mental health, and sociodemographic factors.
According to the study, more than half of participants reported engaging in digital communication activities. After adjusting for covariates, researchers found that email use was significantly positively associated with perceived mental health (Adjβ=0.113; p<0.001). In contrast, use of social networking sites was associated with poorer perceived mental health (Adjβ=-0.080; p=0.002). No significant associations were observed for instant messaging, online voice or video calls, dating websites, or uploading content.
The authors suggest that one possible explanation for the negative association between social media use and perceived mental health is exposure to distressing content as well as social comparison.
"Understanding how digital communication tools are associated with mental health outcomes can inform policy and practice aimed at supporting mental well-being in this age group," the authors say. "The findings may inform the development of targeted interventions and strategies to support mental well-being among older adults."
