Thai Older Persons' Digital Capacity and Application of Technology for Healthy Aging: A Mixed-Method Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Digital Health
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Thailand is rapidly aging, creating a superaged society.
• Digital transformation risks excluding older adults.
• A gap exists in understanding older adults' digital skills for health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess digital skills among older adults in Northern Thailand.
• To examine the relationship between digital skills and health outcomes.
• To explore technology use for health promotion in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods study with 500 older adults using the LSE digital skills instrument.
• Quantitative analysis included Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and ordinal logistic regression.
• Qualitative thematic analysis of focus groups explained quantitative findings.

Main Results:

• Higher social skills positively impacted self-rated health.
• 'Information navigation skills' facilitated healthcare access via the internet.
• Operational and social skills were linked to using technology for improved eating habits, healthcare access, and long-term care services.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need to improve digital literacy and internet usage in older populations.
• Digital skills are vital for promoting healthy aging in Thailand.
• Technology, particularly smartphone apps, can support older adults in staying connected and accessing care.