To improve mental health, go online, over-50s told. It keeps you connected and informed

Staying informed and connected by going online, even once a week, lowers depression scores in over-50s, University of Hong Kong study finds

Reading Time:2 minutes

A University of Hong Kong study shows that being online, even if it is only once a week, brings mental health benefits for people over 50. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 5:15pm, 8 Dec 2024

Regularly going online to stay informed and connected to those around them may help those aged 50 and over improve their mental health, according to new research from the University of Hong Kong.

A study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour in November found that people aged 50 and over who are online have fewer depressive symptoms on average than those who do not use the internet.

The study, which analysed the online habits of more than 87,000 adults in 23 countries – including China, the United States and the United Kingdom, found older people who were often online had about nine per cent lower depression scores than those who were not and were also more satisfied with their lives.

For people in the second half of their life, who may be less mobile or less active because of health restrictions, the internet can have several valuable functions.

The internet provides an important channel for social connections and online entertainment, which help alleviate feelings of loneliness. Photo: Shutterstock

It not only serves as a source of information, but also helps to maintain contact with family and friends and expand a person’s social network, the researchers said.

According to the study, the positive effects were particularly pronounced among people over 65 who are single or have little social contact.