Using data from the 2020 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), this chapter investigates the relationship between social media use and subjective experiences of aging among older adults aged 65 years or older in China. It focuses on two constructs in terms of views on aging (VoA) and perceived aging (PA) to assess how digital engagement shapes aging self-perceptions. The findings reveal that social media use is significantly associated with more positive aging experiences, particularly lower levels of negative PA, even after adjusting for a wide range of demographic, socioeconomic, health, and psychosocial factors. Subgroup analyses show these associations persist across diverse populations, with especially strong effects among users with cognitive or physical limitations. Purpose-specific usage, such as for health management or information seeking, was linked to more favorable aging perceptions. These results underscore the role of social media as a tool for fostering active and positive aging. The chapter highlights the need for inclusive digital policies and age-friendly media environments that support older adults’ self-worth and well-being.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Social Media Use and Aging Experiences Among Older Adults in China

  • Danan Gu,
  • Qiushi Feng,
  • Fang Yang

摘要

Using data from the 2020 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), this chapter investigates the relationship between social media use and subjective experiences of aging among older adults aged 65 years or older in China. It focuses on two constructs in terms of views on aging (VoA) and perceived aging (PA) to assess how digital engagement shapes aging self-perceptions. The findings reveal that social media use is significantly associated with more positive aging experiences, particularly lower levels of negative PA, even after adjusting for a wide range of demographic, socioeconomic, health, and psychosocial factors. Subgroup analyses show these associations persist across diverse populations, with especially strong effects among users with cognitive or physical limitations. Purpose-specific usage, such as for health management or information seeking, was linked to more favorable aging perceptions. These results underscore the role of social media as a tool for fostering active and positive aging. The chapter highlights the need for inclusive digital policies and age-friendly media environments that support older adults’ self-worth and well-being.