고령자의 삶의 질과 디지털정보 활용능력

This study explores the use of digital information by older adults in a rapidly changing environment and examines how digital information literacy, adaptation to new environmental changes, and attitudes affect quality of life. To this end, based on data from the 2023 Digital Divide Survey, we conducted an empirical analysis of the impact of digital information literacy on the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults aged 55 and above. First, we found that there is a significant difference in digital information capabilities and their use by age. That is, the older they are, the less they use them in areas such as search capabilities, daily living services, social relationships, and economic activities. Weak digital information literacy skills may be a reflection of socioeconomic isolation, as many parts of our society have become non-face-to-face, and various information and opportunities are primarily provided on the Internet. We also found that digital information literacy, attitudes toward digital devices, self-efficacy, and positive attitudes toward AI technology have a positive impact on life satisfaction among older adults. These results suggest that as people age, they can improve their quality of life by having an active attitude and mindset toward new environments and actively engaging in the education they need in the changing environment. This confirms that poor digital information literacy among the elderly can lead to economic poverty due to problems with financial use and insurance. Therefore, insurance and financial education that adapts to rapid environmental changes and enhances digital information literacy is needed. Enhancing the ability to adapt to new environments is essential to improving the quality of life of the elderly in response to the accelerated entry of the super aging society.