Effect of Internet Literacy in Understanding Older Adults’ Social Capital and Expected Internet Support

Abstract

This article investigates whether knowledge of Internet usage among older adults is related to social capital as well as their expectations to obtain social support online. A U.S. national survey of adults aged 60 and older (n = 1,101) found that Internet literacy is significantly associated with their expected Internet support and bridging and bonding social capital even after controlling for age, Internet use, and other factors.

Keywords:

• Internet
• Internet Literacy
• Older Adults
• Social Capital
• Social Support

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.