Research in Community and Public Health Nursing

Original Articles

[English] Digital Ageism and Ageism Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults and the Mediating Role of Expectations Regarding Aging: A Cross-Sectional Study: Gahye Kim, Aeri Jung; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(3):403-412. Published online September 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01809

168 View
5 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study examined whether expectations regarding aging mediate the relationship between ageism and digital ageism among middle-aged and older adults and whether this indirect effect differs by age group.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was employed to analyze the data of 300 South Korean adults aged 45 years or older, recruited via an online research panel through sampling stratified by age and gender. Ageism, expectations regarding aging, and digital ageism were assessed using validated self-report scales. Mediation and moderated mediation were tested using Hayes’ PROCESS Models 4 and 14 with bias-corrected bootstrapping.
Results
Digital ageism was positively correlated with ageism (r=.41, p<.001) and negatively correlated with expectations regarding aging (r=-.37, p<.001). Expectations regarding aging partially mediated the relationship between ageism and digital ageism (B=0.22; 95% boot CI=0.11-0.35). Middle-aged adults showed higher digital ageism than older adults (t=2.90, p=.004); however, the mediating pathway did not differ by age group.
Conclusions
The findings suggest that expectations regarding aging may play a mediating role in the association between ageism and digital ageism. Interventions to reduce digital ageism should target both ageist beliefs and negative expectations regarding aging and should be implemented starting in midlife rather than focusing exclusively on older adulthood.

[English] Factors Associated with Health-Promoting Behaviors among Late Middle-Aged Women: Focusing on Aging Anxiety, Social Support, Self-Efficacy, and Physiological Indicators: Yu Jin Shin, Hye Kyung Lee; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(3):346-357. Published online September 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01655

98 View
4 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify the relationships between aging anxiety, social support, and self-efficacy, and to determine the factors influencing health-promoting behaviors among late middle-aged women. Methods: This study utilized a descriptive research design. The participants were 136 late middle-aged women visiting vocational training centers in Sejong Special Self-Governing City. Data were collected using structured questionnaires regarding general characteristics, aging anxiety, social support, and self-efficacy. Physiological indicators, including blood glucose levels and body mass index (BMI), were also measured. Results: The factors significantly influencing health-promoting behaviors in late middle-aged women were social support (β=.40, p<.001), subjective health status categorized as "healthy" (β=.27, p=.019) or "average" (β=.29, p=.009), blood glucose levels (β=.17, p=.010), BMI (β=.16, p=.012), and aging anxiety (β=-.16, p=.042). These factors explained 48.9% of the total variance in health-promoting behaviors (adjusted R²=.489). Conclusion: The findings suggest that psychological, social, and physiological factors should be considered when developing health promotion strategies for late middle-aged women. Community-based programs that enhance social support and nursing interventions addressing health perception, aging anxiety, and physiological health management may help support health-promoting behaviors in this population.

[English] Successful Aging and Its Related Factors Among Older Adults: A Comparative Analysis of Baby Boomers and Preceding Generations: Gyeong-Suk Jeon, Kyungwon Choi; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(3):282-295. Published online September 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01606

88 View
2 Download

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Korea’s older adults comprise distinct birth cohorts with different social, economic, and cultural experiences. We compared successful aging between baby boomers (65-69 years) and the preceding generation (≥70 years) and examined SDH-based correlates across generations. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional secondary analysis of the 2023 National Survey of Older Koreans (N=9,951). Successful aging was defined as meeting all three Rowe and Kahn domains: avoidance of disease/disability, maintenance of physical and mental function, and continued engagement with life. Predictors were organized within an SDH framework (socio-demographic/economic status, health behaviors and healthcare utilization, and social capital/community environment). Weighted estimates and generation-stratified multivariable logistic regression were performed; SDH × generation interactions were tested. Results: Successful aging prevalence was 22.4% overall and higher among baby boomers than the preceding generation (37.3% vs 14.4%). In adjusted models, higher household income and stronger social support networks were associated with higher odds of successful aging in both generations, whereas no health check-up in the past two years was associated with lower odds. Education and absence of a spouse/partner were more strongly related to successful aging in the preceding generation, while cognitive function check-up was positively associated among baby boomers. Interaction tests did not show consistent generational differences for all predictors after full adjustment. Conclusion: Successful aging in Korea differs markedly by generation and is shaped by SDH across the life course. Generation-sensitive strategies to strengthen late-life economic security, promote preventive care use, and enhance social capital and participation may reduce inequalities.

[English] The Effects of Health-Promoting Behavior, Health Self-Efficacy, and Health Literacy on Aging Anxiety among Late Middle-Aged Adults: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study: Hye Su Jung, So Young Shin; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(2):200-211. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01599

745 View
29 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the levels and correlations of health-promoting behavior, health self-efficacy, health literacy, and aging anxiety, and the factors influencing aging anxiety in late middle-aged adults.
Methods
The subjects included 164 late middle-aged adults aged 50–64 years residing in B metropolitan city, South Korea. An online questionnaire was administered through a professional online research company from June 10th to 16th, 2025 to assess general characteristics, health-promoting behavior, health self-efficacy, health literacy, and aging anxiety. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA with Duncan tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression.
Results
A total of 164 subjects with a mean (±SD) age of 56.70 (±4.08) years were included in the final analyses. Aging anxiety had significant negative correlations with health-promoting behavior (r=-.38, p<.001), health self-efficacy (r=-.31, p<.001), and health literacy (r=-.17, p=.029). In the final multiple regression analysis, having one chronic disease (β=.24, p=.003), subjective health rated as ‘average’ (β=.28, p=.002) and ‘poor’ (β=.29, p=.010), and perceived economic status rated as ‘moderate’ (β=.33, p=.008) and ‘low’ (β=.34, p=.010) were associated with higher aging anxiety, whereas higher health-promoting behavior (β=-.23, p=.003) and health self-efficacy (β=-.21, p=.010) were associated with lower aging anxiety. The model explained 33% of the variance in aging anxiety (F=8.93, p<.001).
Conclusion
Enhancing health-promoting behavior and health self-efficacy and improving chronic disease management, subjective health, and economic stability of late middle-aged adults will ultimately reduce their aging anxiety and positively impact their psychological well-being and healthy aging.

[English] Assessing the association between Health Literacy and Health-Related Lifestyle Behaviors Among the older adults in Pathum Thani, Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Survey: Issara Siramaneerat, Warisara Sukumolchan, Chalit Chaowilai, Rutshaporn Chaitoopthong; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(2):179-189. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01494

1,141 View
21 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
The study explores the relationship between socio-demographic factors, health literacy, and health-related behavior (HLB) among elderly individuals in Pathum Thani, Thailand.
Methods
A total of 440 elderly participants were selected through convenience sampling and completed surveys assessing socio-demographic factors, health literacy, and health perception of illness. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression to identify predictors of HLB.
Results
In the final model, marital status (married), higher income levels, income sufficiency, and living with family were significant predictors of HLB (p<.05). Health literacy was a significant positive predictor (β=.18, p<.01), while illness perception also showed a significant positive effect (β=.12, p<.001). The model explained 38% of the variance in HLB (R²=.38). Notably, health literacy and illness perception contributed additional explanatory power beyond socio-demographic factors.
Conclusion
Both socio-demographic and cognitive factors play important roles in shaping health-related behaviors among older adults. Interventions should prioritize improving health literacy and promoting appropriate illness perceptions to enhance healthy behaviors in this population.

[English] The Influence of Self-Esteem and Attitudes toward Organ Donation and Euthanasia on Attitudes toward Advance Directives in Married Middle-Aged Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study: Eun-Ho Ha; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(2):136-151. Published online June 30, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01487

1,374 View
32 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Preparation for organ donation, euthanasia, and advance directives (AD) during midlife contributes to a dignified end-of-life experience. Self-esteem functions as a key psychological resource in this process. This study aimed to examine self-esteem (SE) and attitudes toward organ donation (ATOD), euthanasia (ATE), and advance directives (ATAD), and to assess their effects on ATAD among married middle-aged adults. Methods: A total of 154 middle-aged adults residing in six community regions across Korea participated in the study. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression. Results: SE was positively correlated with ATOD (r=.386, p<.001), ATE (r=.170, p=.035), and ATAD (r=.462, p<.001). ATE was positively correlated with ATOD (r=.402, p<.001), and ATAD was positively correlated with ATOD (r=.677, p<.001) and ATE (r=.384, p<.001). Hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated that ATOD (β=.22, p=.002), being in the 40∼49 age group (β=.19, p=.006), lack of awareness of AD (β=−.18, p=.002), SE (β=.14, p=.016), lower frequency of thinking about organ donation (β=−.13, p=.035), and absence of religion (β=−.10, p=.025) were significant predictors of ATAD. These variables collectively explained 74% of the total variance in ATAD. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need to develop multidisciplinary educational strategies aimed at enhancing key factors that influence ATAD among married middle-aged adults.

[English] Physical Mobility and Life Satisfaction Among Urban Older Adults During Covid-19 Pandemic: Multiple Mediating Effects on Social Participation and Depression: Juah Kim, Hyori Kim, Jiyeon Ha; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(1):113-124. Published online March 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2026.01578

943 View
32 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Life satisfaction, a key component of subjective well-being, is closely associated with successful aging and health in older adults. This study examined the effects of physical mobility on life satisfaction and investigated whether social participation and depression mediate this relationship among community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2020 to January 2021 among 245 older adults aged 65 or older in urban South Korea. Standardized tools assessed physical mobility, social participation, depression, and life satisfaction. Correlation analyses and multiple mediation models using PROCESS macro v4.1 were employed.
Results
Physical mobility (r=.25, p<.001) and social participation (r=.18, p<.001) exhibited statistically significant positive correlations with life satisfaction. Conversely, depression (r=-.61, p<.001) was negatively correlated with life satisfaction. Notably, physical mobility did not directly influence life satisfaction; rather, its effect was mediated through increased social participation and reduced depression (B=0.01, bootstrap 95% CI: 0.00-0.02).
Conclusion
These findings underscore the need for comprehensive approaches that integrate physical, social, and mental health strategies to enhance life satisfaction in older adults—particularly in times of societal disruption such as COVID-19 pandemic.

[English] Associations of Biochemical Nutritional Indicators with Frailty Among Older Adults Using Community Welfare Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study: Eunjeong Nam, Jin Kyoung Park, Hye Seung Choi; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(1):71-80. Published online March 31, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01438; Correction in: Res Community Public Health Nurs 2026;37(2):226

848 View
18 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Nutritional imbalance has been associated with frailty in older adults. This study aimed to examine the relationships between biochemical nutritional indicators and frailty among community-dwelling older adults, with the long-term goal of informing the development of frailty and exacerbation prevention programs.
Methods
Data were collected from 192 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years across three cities from August to September, 2019. Anthropometric measures, blood tests, and structured questionnaires were used to collect data. Study variables included general characteristics, appetite, body mass index, biochemical nutritional indicators (protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and electrolytes), and frailty. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and hierarchical regression.
Results
Frailty differed significantly according to age, number of chronic diseases, appetite, vitamin D, and calcium. These variables together explained 35% of the variance in frailty.
Conclusion
To prevent frailty in older adults, age, number of chronic diseases, appetite, vitamin D, and calcium levels should be continuously monitored, and nursing interventions that manage diet, provide nutritional supplements, and provide oral medication are needed to maintain normal vitamin D and calcium levels in community-dwelling older adults.

[English] How Many Older Koreans Are at Risk? National Estimates of Food Insecurity and Sarcopenia Risk Based on ESPEN Guidelines: Dasom Kim; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2026;37(1):61-70. Published online February 26, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01270

1,804 View
42 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Food insecurity and inadequate nutrient intake are major public health concerns in aging populations. Sarcopenia is influenced by nutrition and socioeconomic status. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of food insecurity and sarcopenia risk among Korean older adults and examine associations with socioeconomic and lifestyle factors.
Methods
A cross-sectional analysis of the 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) was conducted using a complex sample design. A total of 1,365 adults aged ≥65 years were included. Food insecurity, nutrient adequacy per European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) guidelines, and sarcopenia risk (defined by low handgrip strength) were assessed. Logistic regression determined associations with socioeconomic status, diet, and exercise.
Results
Food insecurity affected 15.7% of older adults (weighted percentage). An estimated 40.9% had inadequate nutrient intake, and 24.6% were at risk of sarcopenia. Lower income was significantly associated with sarcopenia risk; compared to the lowest quintile, those in the second quintile had lower odds (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.43–0.87). Lower education also increased risk, with high school graduates showing lower odds (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.26–0.78) compared to those with elementary education or less. Notably, nutrient adequacy based on ESPEN guidelines was not significantly associated with sarcopenia risk. Resistance exercise ≥3 days/week was protective (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28–0.82).
Conclusions
Socioeconomic disadvantage and physical inactivity are primary determinants of sarcopenia risk in Korean older adults. The lack of association between ESPEN-based nutrient adequacy and sarcopenia risk highlights the need to address structural socioeconomic determinants beyond simple nutrient supplementation.

[English] Factors Associated with Work Engagement of Home-Visit Care Workers Based on Job Demands–Resources Model: A Quantitative Cross-Sectional Study: Hanyi Lee, Hyeon Sik Chu; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(4):396-406. Published online December 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01221

1,730 View
51 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
The aim of this study is to identify the factors associated with work engagement among home-visit care workers in South Korea, the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model was used as a guiding theoretical framework. Methods: This descriptive correlational study used secondary data from the 2020 Survey on the Service Environment of Home Care Workers by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs. Participants were 509 certified home-visit care workers from Seoul and Chungcheong, each caring for one recipient. Measures included emotional labor, self-rated health, relationship quality with care recipients, and work engagement. Data were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Results: Work engagement was negatively associated with emotional labor and positively associated with self-rated health, relationship quality with care recipient, and satisfaction with the care environment. Emotional labor remained a significant negative relationship, while self-rated health and relationship quality with care recipients emerged as key positive relationships. The final model explained 17.0% of the variance. Conclusions: These findings support the applicability of the JD-R model in understanding work engagement among home-visit care workers. Although job demands such as emotional labor may hinder engagement, individual and relational resources play protective and motivating roles. The diminished influence of physical and environmental factors in the presence of strong personal resources highlights the importance of a balanced approach that strengthens the emotional, physical, and relational capacities to support sustainable engagement.

[English] Impact of Leisure Activities on Physical, Mental, and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults: Gyeong-Suk Jeon, Kyungwon Choi; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(4):420-434. Published online December 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01165

1,425 View
47 Download

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
This study aimed to classify types of leisure activity and examine their associations with self-rated health, depression and cognitive function among older adults in Korea.
Methods
Data were drawn from 7,804 participants in the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans. Types of leisure activity were identified through K-means cluster analysis using respondents' first and second choices of leisure activities. Multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusted for sociodemographic and health-related covariates were conducted to assess the primary associations between leisure types and dichotomized health outcomes.
Results
Five distinct groups were identified: religious activity-oriented, varied physical activity-oriented, walking and rest-oriented, gardening and sedentary activity-oriented, and social activity-oriented. Compared to the religious activity-oriented group, the varied physical activity-oriented (OR=0.71, 95% CI=0.59–0.85), walking and rest-oriented (OR=0.55, 95% CI=0.39–0.77), and social activity-oriented groups (OR=0.46, 95% CI=0.29–0.72) showed significantly lower odds of poor self-rated health. All four types exhibited significantly lower odds of depression; notably, the social activity-oriented (OR=0.40, 95% CI=0.28–0.57) and walking and rest-oriented (OR=0.40, 95% CI=0.28–0.57) groups showed the strongest protective effect. None of the leisure groups showed a significant link to cognitive function risk when compared with the religious activity-oriented group. Conclusions: Leisure patterns involving diverse physical activities and social engagement are strongly associated with favorable health outcomes. Health promotion strategies should prioritize accessible community-based programs that encourage diverse physical and socially engaging activities, while developing targeted interventions (e.g., combining cognitive stimulation with sedentary leisure) to reduce disparities and mitigate cognitive risk among older adults.

[English] The Mediating Effect of Depressive Symptoms on the Relationship between Activity Engagement and Cognitive Function among Older Adults: Da Eun Kim, Bokyoung Kim; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(3):328-338. Published online September 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01179

2,602 View
51 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
Engaging in activities in later life is beneficial for maintaining cognitive function. This study examined whether depressive symptoms mediate the relationship between activity engagement and cognitive function among older adults. Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2022 Health and Retirement Study (HRS), including 2,741 participants aged 65 years and older. Mediation analyses were performed using SPSS PROCESS Macro Model 4 with bootstrapping. Results: A partial mediating effect of depressive symptoms was identified in the relationship between different types of activity engagement (e.g., physical, cognitive, and social activities) and cognitive function. The standardized indirect effects of depressive symptoms were β=.02 (95% boot CI=0.01 to 0.03) for physical activity, β=.01 (95% boot CI=0.01 to 0.02) for cognitive activity, and β=.02 (95% boot CI=0.01 to 0.03) for social activity. Conclusion: These findings suggest that activity engagement may enhance cognitive function by reducing depressive symptoms among older adults. The results highlight the importance of developing and strengthening community-based physical, cognitive, and social activity programs that incorporate depressive symptom management as practical strategies to prevent cognitive decline in older adults.

[English] Path Analysis of Factors Influencing Health-Related Quality of Life for Community-Dwelling Vulnerable Older Adults with Chronic Diseases in Korea: Hyun-Ju Lee; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(3):315-327. Published online September 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2025.01067

1,410 View
42 Download

Abstract PDF: Purpose
This study aims to construct and verify a path model for the factors affecting health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases in Korea. Methods: The sample included 195 community-dwelling vulnerable adults aged 65 years and above with chronic diseases in Korea. Structured questionnaires were collected from April to June 2022. Data were analyzed using SPSS 28.0 and AMOS 28.0 programs. Results: The hypothesized path model significantly explained HRQoL in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases, with a high explanatory power (48.0%). Self-rated health (SRH) and self-efficacy for managing chronic disease (SEMCD) had a significant direct effect on HRQoL. The number of diseases, depressive symptoms, social support, and digital literacy indirectly affected HRQoL. Conclusion: To improve HRQoL in community-dwelling vulnerable older adults with chronic diseases, integrated community health-management programs should focus on enhancing SEMCD and SRH, while incorporating depression screening, social support, and digital literacy education.

[English] The Effect of Digital Health Literacy, Self-Efficacy on Self-Care Behaviors among Community-Dwelling Elderly: Focusing on Gyeongsangbuk-do: Hyojin Son, Youngran Han; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2025;36(1):59-72. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00801

11,931 View
362 Download
5 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study aimed to explore the relationship between digital health literacy, self-efficacy, and self-care behaviors, and to identify the effects of digital health literacy and self-efficacy on self-care behaviors among the community-dwelling elderly.
Methods
This descriptive study used self-reported questionnaires and was conducted from January to April 2024. This study included 197 participants aged 65 or older, residing in nine cities and counties within Gyeongsangbuk-do. Data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 23.0, employing descriptive statistics, t-test, One-way ANOVA, Scheffé tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical regression analysis.
Results
The average scores were as follows: digital health literacy, 21.97±8.38 (out of 40 points); self-efficacy, 3.27±0.72 (out of 5 points); and self-care behaviors, 70.22±10.55 (out of 96 points). Self-efficacy (β=.32, p<.001) was identified as the primary factor influencing self-care behaviors. Additionally, job (β=-.20, p=.002) and gender (β=-.18, p=.007) were also significant factors. These factors explained 22.8% of the variance of self-care behaviors.
Conclusion
Based on the above study results, we found that to promote self-care behaviors of community-dwelling elderly people, developing and implementing training programs that enhance self- efficacy are imperative. Furthermore, efforts should be made to overcome regional disparities by developing and implementing various policies and programs at the government, local government, and community levels to enhance the digital health literacy of the elderly.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The effect of mothers' digital health literacy on fever management: The mediating role of perceived maternal self-efficacy
Fatoş Uncu, Hasan Evcimen, Elanur Bulut
Journal of Pediatric Nursing.2026; 87: 58. CrossRef
Anxiety and its associations with digital health literacy, self-efficacy and self-care habits among Indian university students
Brency A. Parekh, Ritu Sharma
Health Education.2026; 126(4): 456. CrossRef
Sociological approach to the state-society communication under infodemic: Collective information hygiene in Indonesia
M. A. Muqsith, V. L. Muzykant, F. N. Mahmudah, H. Silvianto, V. K. A. Putri
RUDN Journal of Sociology.2026; 26(2): 580. CrossRef
The Influence of e-Health Literacy, Technostress, and Subjective Health Status on Health Promotion Behaviors among Older Adults
Whang Sun A
Journal of Korea Society for Simulation in Nursing.2025; 13(1): 71. CrossRef
Variables influencing digital health literacy in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Jin Hwa Park, Eun Ju Mun
Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2025; 55(4): 651. CrossRef

[English] Digital Health Literacy and Associated Factors Among Older Adults Living Alone in South Korea: A Cross-Sectional Study: Minhwa Hwang, Gahye Kim, Seonghyeon Lee, Yeon-Hwan Park; Res Community Public Health Nurs. 2024;35(4):389-400. Published online December 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.12799/rcphn.2024.00766

42,883 View
487 Download
9 Citations

Abstract PDF

Purpose
This study aimed to examine the level of digital health literacy and identify factors associated with digital health literacy among older adults living alone in South Korea.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 140 older adults aged 65 and above who live alone. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric methods were used to explore the relationship between digital health literacy and independent variables. A generalized linear model was used to identify factors associated with digital health literacy.
Results
Among 140 smartphone-owning older adults living alone, 52.1% were using the Internet via digital devices, and the participants’ average digital health literacy score was 6.64±7.46. Univariate analysis results showed significant differences in digital health literacy according to age, education level, and multimorbidity. The factors associated with digital health literacy were identified as gender (B=−0.36, p=.031), age (B=−0.06, p<.001), education level (B=0.12, p<.001), and sleep problems (B=−0.06, p=.006).
Conclusion
Despite widespread Internet and smartphone use, older adults living alone with chronic diseases showed low levels of digital health literacy, which were significantly associated with gender, age, education level, and sleep problems. Enhancing digital health literacy among vulnerable populations is crucial for the effective implementation of digital health services. Collaborative efforts, including tailored digital health interventions to enhance the digital health literacy of vulnerable populations and supportive policies, are essential to bridge the digital divide and promote health equity.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Explainable Machine Learning for Assessing Digital Health Literacy in Older Adults: Validation and Development of a Two-Stage Model Integrating Performance-Based and Self-Assessed Indicators
Choonghee Park, Jiyeon Park, Seora Kim, Ye Seul Bae, Jae-Heon Kang, Tae-Min Kim, Ji-Won Chun
JMIR Medical Informatics.2026; 14: e86171. CrossRef
Digital health literacy scale in older adults: A study on the validity and reliability of the Turkish version
Gülcan Bahcecioglu Turan, Mizgin Demir, Zülfünaz Özer
Geriatric Nursing.2026; 71: 104101. CrossRef
Effects of a digital repetitive dietary education intervention on dietary knowledge, dietary self-care behaviors, and physiological indicators among hemodialysis patients in rural Korea: a quasi-experimental study
Eun-Ho Ha, Sun-Ju Park
Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science.2026; 28(2): 275. CrossRef
Sex Differences in Health Literacy and Health-Promoting Behaviors Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Hypertension: Implications for Home Health Nursing Practice
Wanich Suksatan, Supat Teravecharoenchai, Jintana Sarayuthpitak
Home Health Care Management & Practice.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Associations of General Self-Efficacy and Digital Health Literacy with Self-Management and Intention to Use Digital Health Services Among Adults Aged 50 Years and Older with Chronic Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Pınar Soylar, Gülsüm Aşan, Bircan Ulaş Kadıoğlu
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2026; 23(7): 943. CrossRef
Impact of an Interaction-Oriented, Information and Communication Technology-Based Community Care Service on Nutritional Status and Dietary Behavior of Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Seojin Yun, Seulgi Lee, Eun Young Lee, Kirang Kim
Preventive Nutrition and Food Science.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Development and Validation of BE-ALERT as an Early Stroke Detection Application
Luh Titi Handayani, Nursalam, Tang Li Yoong, Tan Woei Ling, Silvia Dewi Mayasari Riu, Mariyam, Pawestri, Sri Rusmini, Christine Aden
Korean Journal of Adult Nursing.2026; 38(3): 244. CrossRef
Determinants of self-reported health literacy among older adults in South Korea: a cross-sectional study
Jieun Shin, Seunghui Baek
Frontiers in Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Analysis of factors influencing digital literacy of rural elderly people-evidence from China
Zhaoting Zhang
BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

First
Prev
Page of 12
Next
Last

Search