Digital well-being for seniors: opportunities and risk
The relevance of the study is determined by the accelerated digitalization of public life, which poses significant challenges, especially for representatives of the “silver” age. The age-related “digital divide” affects not only access to technologies but also competencies, motivation, and subjective well-being. Scientific problem. Despite the growing interest in digital well-being, the experience of the older generation, their subjective perception of the benefits and risks of the digital environment, as well as the connection between digital practices and the overall assessment of well-being remain insufficiently studied, especially from a regional perspective and considering the internal differentiation within this age cohort itself. Methods. The study is based on data from a representative survey of the population of Vologda oblast aged 50 and older (N=1000, 2025). Age stratification into two subgroups (50-64 years old and 65+ years old) and comparative analysis were applied to identify differences in attitudes, practices, and perceptions of digital technologies. Scientific results. Two behavioral models were identified: a model of “digital integration” (in the 50-64 age group), characterized by a positive attitude towards technologies, daily internet use, and a wide range of online practices. The digital environment is perceived as a source of opportunities, contributing to time savings, autonomy, and social connections. Almost half of the respondents in this group note an increase in personal well-being thanks to technologies. A model of “digital pragmatism/exclusion” (predominant in the 65+ age group): characterized by a neutral or cautious attitude, low frequency or complete absence of internet use. Online practices are limited to basic socio-domestic functions. The positive impact of digitalization on well-being is noted less by this older age group. Conclusions. The digital well-being of the older generation is of a differentiated nature, determined by age boundaries. The advantages and main barriers to digital inclusion are identified.
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This research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation grant № 25-28-01422 «Conceptual Foundations and Practices for Achieving Digital Well-being of the Older Generation in the Sphere of Consumption», https://rscf.ru/en/project/25-28-01422/.