The Mediating and Moderating Effects of Types of Internet Use in the Relationship between Age and Cognitive Function among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

Background: This paper examines whether various types of internet use mediated or moderated the relationship between age and cognitive function. Methods: Using 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans, the data of 8,639 adults aged 65 or over were analyzed by complex sample analysis using chi-square test, t-test, multiple regression analysis, and Sobel’s test. Results: All types of internet use were significantly associated with cognitive function and played a significant mediating effect in the relationship between age and cognitive function. Internet use for information searching was the most protective for cognitive function (β=1.902, P<0.001), while Internet use for interpersonal communication exhibited the greatest mediating effect in the relationship between age and cognitive function (Age: β=–0.131, P<0.001→ β=–0.079, P<0.001). The influence of age on cognitive function moderated by all types of internet use. Conclusions: This underscores the need to consider various types of internet use when creating nonpharmacological interventions aimed at delaying age-associated cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults.