The impact of everyday ICT use on depressive symptoms among older adults in China: A subjective social status perspective

Abstract Objectives While numerous studies have highlighted the positive effects of everyday information and communication technology (EICT) use among older adults, emerging evidence signals potential detriments to mental health, particularly among younger demographics. This study aims to examine the effect of EICT on depressive symptoms among Chinese older adults. We hypothesize that EICT use among older adults will contribute to higher amounts of depressive symptoms, mediated by a decline in subjective social status. Methods We conducted a longitudinal mediation analysis with data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), a nationally representative survey. A total of 3,234 older adults aged 60 years and older were selected from Wave 2016 (T1), Wave 2018 (T2), and Wave 2020 (T3) of the CFPS. Structural equation modeling was used to construct complete longitudinal path model. Results EICT use at T1 predicted a decline in subjective social status at T2 (β = −0.215, p = .001), which in turn predicted higher depressive symptoms at T3 (β = −0.375, p = .005). The mediating effect of subjective social status was statistically supported (indirect effect 0.081, p = .042). Discussion We reveal the potential negative impact of EICT use among older adults and its underlying mechanism. It lays the groundwork for the formulation of relevant public health initiatives, critical for stemming and mitigating the burgeoning incidence of depressive symptoms within China’s aging population.