Health Literacy Suppresses the Negative Association Between ICTs Usage and Mental Health Among the Aged: A Cross-Sectional Survey #MMPMID41351182
Akepaer A
Inquiry 2025[Jan]; 62 (?): 469580251399372 PMID41351182show ga
Although the association between Health Literacy and Mental Health has been explored in previous research, their interplay within digital technology contexts-especially among the aged-remains insufficiently studied. This study aims to explore the association between ICTs usage and the Mental Health of older adults in China and examine the moderating role of Health Literacy in this relationship. This study is a secondary data analysis based on a cross-sectional survey: 2021 Psychological and Behavioral Investigation of Chinese Residents. Descriptive statistical analysis and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were applied. In zero-order correlation analyses, the relationship between ICTs usage and Mental Health was not significant. After controlling for Health Literacy, ICTs usage had a significant negative association with Mental Health (B = -0.129, beta = -.16, P < .001). Health Literacy had a positive relationship with Mental Health (B = 0.027, beta = .243, P < .001). Further moderation effect analysis showed that introducing the interaction term did not increase the model's explanatory power (DeltaR(2) = .000). Although no moderating effect was found between ICTs usage and Mental Health, Health Literacy may act as a suppressor variable to offset the negative impact of digital technology. Future Mental Health management for the aged should focus on reducing harmful ICTs usage and enhancing Health Literacy levels.
Inquiry 2025 ; 62 (?): 469580251399372
