According to research, computer savvy senior citizens have fewer symptoms of depression than those that do not get connected.
In an ongoing research study, data is being collected regarding computer use and depression to determine the changes over time in physical health, mental health and social activity of older adults.
Researchers wanted to look into the impact of the growing use of computers and the thought that those using computers would report fewer depressive symptoms than non-users. “Given the social and informational nature of older adult’s computer practices, e-mail, chat rooms and health information gathering, for example, it seems likely that this would be beneficial to an individual’s overall mental health.”Triche said.
In the study, it was determined that seniors who were computer users reported significantly fewer depressive symptoms that non- users. Researchers also found that computer users tended to be among the younger members of the study group and had higher annual incomes while also reporting higher functioning in activities of daily living.
Study conducted by Edward Cisek, PHD, and Kathleen Triche, DSW, CSW
