THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL SOCIAL SUPPORT ON LONELINESS OF URBAN ELDERLY

Abstract

This study explores the impact of digital social support on the loneliness of urban elderly individuals. With the acceleration of urbanization, elderly people are increasingly facing the problem of heightened loneliness, and the proliferation of digital technology offers new avenues for social support. Through surveys conducted among elderly populations in different cities, this paper analyzes the forms of digital social support and their effects on loneliness. The findings indicate that digital social support mechanisms such as social media, online communities, and remote communication tools can effectively alleviate loneliness and enhance feelings of social connectedness among the elderly. Notably, during the pandemic, digital tools became crucial for elderly individuals to maintain social connections. Through case studies, this paper further reveals the varying impacts of different types of digital social support on the mental health of the elderly and how they adapt to and utilize these technologies. Finally, the study offers recommendations for policymakers and social service organizations to promote better integration of elderly individuals into the digital society, thereby reducing loneliness.