Activating and Guiding the Engagement of Seniors With Online Social Networking: Experimental Findings From the AGES 2.0 Project

TY - JOUR

T1 - Activating and Guiding the Engagement of Seniors With Online Social Networking

T2 - Experimental Findings From the AGES 2.0 Project

AU - Morton, Thomas A.

AU - Wilson, Neil

AU - Haslam, Catherine

AU - Birney, Megan

AU - Kingston, Rosemary

AU - McCloskey, Lauren Grace

PY - 2018/1/1

Y1 - 2018/1/1

N2 - Objective: Guided by theoretical and empirical work attesting to the health benefits of social connections, we tested whether Internet connectivity, and training in its use for social purposes, can support the well-being of older adults receiving care. Method: Participants (N = 76) were randomly assigned to receive 3 months training versus care-as-usual. Cognitive and mental health were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Results show significant cognitive improvements across time in the training, but not control, group. This effect was mediated through a combination of increased social activity, improved self-competence, and maintained personal identity strength. Indirect effects on mental health outcomes via these processes were also observed. Discussion: These findings suggest that Internet access and training can support the self and social connectedness of vulnerable older adults and contribute positively to well-being.

AB - Objective: Guided by theoretical and empirical work attesting to the health benefits of social connections, we tested whether Internet connectivity, and training in its use for social purposes, can support the well-being of older adults receiving care. Method: Participants (N = 76) were randomly assigned to receive 3 months training versus care-as-usual. Cognitive and mental health were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Results show significant cognitive improvements across time in the training, but not control, group. This effect was mediated through a combination of increased social activity, improved self-competence, and maintained personal identity strength. Indirect effects on mental health outcomes via these processes were also observed. Discussion: These findings suggest that Internet access and training can support the self and social connectedness of vulnerable older adults and contribute positively to well-being.

KW - cognitive capacity

KW - computers

KW - Internet

KW - social connections

KW - well-being

U2 - 10.1177/0898264316664440

DO - 10.1177/0898264316664440

M3 - Journal article

C2 - 27530332

AN - SCOPUS:85036500594

SN - 0898-2643

VL - 30

SP - 27

EP - 51

JO - Journal of Aging and Health

JF - Journal of Aging and Health

IS - 1

ER -