Relationship Between Typology of Internet Users and Social Networks in Chinese Older Adults

Objectives: This study aims to generate a typology of Internet users, examine the association between this typology of Internet users and social network characteristics, and assess the moderating effect of rural–urban residence among older adults in China. Methods: Data were from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey. Latent class analysis and OLS regression with interaction terms were used. Results: Four types of Internet users were identified: Socializers, Social and Leisure Users, Leisure Users, and Advanced Users. Socializers were associated with larger and more supportive social networks, family networks, and friend networks than Leisure and Advanced Users. In addition, compared to their urban counterparts, older Internet users living in rural areas benefitted more from online social communication. Discussion:This study highlights the need to increase awareness among gerontological practitioners with respect to patterns of Internet use among older adults as a potential for enhancing their social well-being.