Factors affecting information and communication technology use and eHealth literacy among older adults in the US and South Korea

Abstract

This study examined ways in which Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a role in contexts between two countries: the US and South Korea, comparing individual situations and structural factors that support the use of ICT among older adults. Surveys were administered to 113 US and 104 Korean community-dwelling respondents, inquiring about their ICT use, eHealth Literacy, and Social Capital. Significant differences between the two countries were found in respondents’ educational levels, marital status, and types of social activities. A vast majority of Korean elders (77.9%) reported being current users of the Internet, compared to 63.7% of their US peers. A greater level of eHealth literacy was found among Koreans. In both groups, factors affecting eHealth literacy included educational levels and confidence in using ICT. In both countries, ICT can provide a diverse array of online resources for low-income elders to manage their health problems and maintain social connections. Hence, further services are needed to help older adults become more involved in technology in order to maximize the utilization of ICT.