Digital media use and the Chinese elderly’s physical activity: Evidence from a national aging social survey

Abstract Background and Objectives: Constructing a national fitness service system is important in realizing high-quality development. This study analyze the impact and mechanism of digital media use on physical activity (PA) in the elderly. Research Design and Methods: This study uses the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey data. At first, we uses the ordinary least square model (OLS) and binary selection modelto test the relationship between digital media use and elderly’s PA.Then, we uses the three-step causal analysis and Bootstrap methods to test whether there is a mediating effect. Results: The study found that: first, physical activity of the elderly involves multiple difficulties, such as lack of PA venues, PA organizations and PA guidance. Second, the use of digital media such as smartphones and the internet have a positive impact on the elderly’s PA, and this conclusion still holds after using multiple robustness tests. Thirdly, promoting the elderly’s participation in community governance, enhancing interpersonal support of the elderly, and improving positive efficacy of the elderly are mediating mechanisms. Discussion and Implications: This study highlights the importance of using digital media, upgrading sports public service resources, participating in community governance, and building social support for the elderly.