BACKGROUND
Depression is a widespread mental health issue, significantly affecting the elderly globally. Addressing elderly depression has become a critical health challenge. Despite evidence on digital interventions in developed countries, there is a lack of rigorous research on the potential of internet usage to alleviate depression among the elderly in developing countries.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework and test hypotheses regarding the impact of internet usage on elderly depression.
METHODS
Utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), we employ a two-stage instrumental variable approach to address potential endogeneity and accurately estimate causal effects.
RESULTS
The results demonstrate that internet usage significantly reduces depression levels among the elderly by 1.41%. Mechanism analyses indicate that this reduction is mediated through improved social interaction, increased physical activity, better intergenerational contact, and enhanced educational opportunities. Heterogeneity analyses reveal that these effects are especially pronounced in urban areas, eastern regions, and broadband China pilot zones.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings highlight the significant role of internet usage in alleviating depression among the elderly in developing countries, with notable regional variations. This study contributes to the understanding of digital interventions' impact on elderly mental health and suggests the importance of targeted policy interventions to promote internet access and digital literacy.
CLINICALTRIAL
Obtained ethical approval from the Biomedical Ethics Review Committee of Peking University (#IRB 00001052 -11015).