The relationship between cognitive abilities, well-being and use of new technologies in older people

Abstract

The purpose of this literature review was to investigate the relationship between individual cognitive abilities, well-being and use of information and communication technology (ICT) to sustain digital engagement of older people. The analysis included 19 empirical studies investigating the association between cognitive abilities and use of new technologies as well as studies examining the relationship between well-being and ICT use. Our results showed that while several studies indicate a significant effect of cognitive abilities (in particular of working memory capacity) on the use of new technologies, it remains unclear whether ICT use can in turn improve cognition and well-being in healthy, older individuals. On the other hand, in those with mild to moderate dementia some improvements have been found when using ICT-based interventions. In addition, some ICT-based interventions for older people with depression have shown to be effective in improving mood. Further studies should take into account health, prior cognitive status, education and socio-economic status and investigate the relationship for different types of aging processes separately.