Social network typologies of Korean older adults and digital literacy differences: A latent class analysis

Abstract Background This study aimed to categorize older Korean adults’ social networks and analyze the characteristics and digital literacy differences among older adults according to each type. Method The data of 9,377 older Korean adults were analyzed using the 2020 national survey of older Koreans. Latent class analysis (LCA) was performed using the data, χ 2 and variance analyses were performed to understand the characteristics of each social network type, and Scheffe post‐hoc test was performed to determine the significant differences between groups. Result Three social network types were derived using LCA and classified as ‘child‐centered type,’ ‘child‐friend type,’ and 'friend‐centered type.’ Results showed a statistically significant difference in digital literacy levels according to the social network types. Conclusion This study findings can be used to propose intervention programs and services associated with older adults’ social networks by examining the social network types of older adults and corresponding differences in digital literacy.