JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Digital technologies have enabled social connection during prolonged periods of physical distancing and travel restrictions throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. These solutions may exclude older adults, who are at higher risk for social isolation, loneliness, and severe outcomes if infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Objective:

This analysis investigated factors associated with non-use of social media or video communications to connect with friends and family among older adults during the pandemic’s first wave.

Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey was administered to members of a national retired educators’ organization based in Ontario, Canada between May 6-19, 2020. Respondents (N=4,879) were asked about their use of social networking websites or apps to communicate with friends and family, their internet connection and smartphone access, loneliness, and sociodemographic characteristics. Factors associated with non-use were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. A thematic analysis was performed of open-ended survey responses that described experiences with technology and virtual connection.

Results:

Overall, 15.4% of respondents did not use social networking websites or apps. After adjustment, male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.33-1.92), advanced age (OR: 1.88, 95% CI 1.38-2.55), living alone (OR: 1.68, 95% CI 1.39-2.02), poorer health (OR: 1.33, 95% CI 1.04-1.71), and lower social support (OR: 1.44, 95% CI 1.20-1.71) increased the odds of non-use. Reliability of internet connection and access to a smartphone also predicted non-use. Many respondents viewed these technologies as beneficial, especially for maintaining pre-COVID social contacts and routines, despite preferences for in-person connection.

Conclusions:

Several factors including advanced age, living alone, and low social support increased the odds of non-use of social media in older adults to communicate with friends and family during COVID-19’s first wave. Findings identify socially vulnerable subgroups who may benefit from intervention (e.g., improved access, digital literacy, and telephone outreach) to improve social connection.