Association between participation in social network service groups and offline social networks

Although some previous studies have suggested using a social networking service (SNS) to create and maintain offline social networks among younger generations, whether similar outcomes would apply to middle-aged and older individuals is uncertain. This study aimed to examine the association between participation in groups via SNS and greater offline social networks among middle-aged and older individuals.

We conducted a web-based questionnaire survey on 3106 respondents from September to October 2021 among members of "the Shumi-to Club," an SNS in Japan. They indicated the number of SNS groups they belonged to and were classified into two categories, namely, those with and without participation in SNS groups. The current study assessed offline social networks using the total frequency of face-to-face interactions with distant family members and friends. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed, and the frequency of offline interactions was set as the outcome with adjustment for sociodemographic variables and self-rated health.

Approximately 70.8% (n = 2200) of the participants belonged to SNS groups. Participation in SNS groups was associated with higher frequencies of face-to-face interaction with friends (odds ratio [95% confidential intervals]: 1.78 [1.53-2.07]). However, the current study found no association between belonging to a group and face-to-face interaction with distant family members (1.09 [0.93-1.26]).

The participation in SNS groups potentially promotes offline social networks, particularly with friends. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 279-284.