Impact of ICT Use and Digital Literacy on Loneliness and Social Isolation During Active Aging: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review

This OSF registration contains the protocol associated with a mixed-methods systematic review examining the influence of technology use and digital literacy on perceptions of loneliness and social isolation among older adults within the framework of active and healthy aging. As digital technologies continue to play an increasingly important role in everyday life, they have emerged as valuable resources for promoting well-being, social participation, and independence in later life. The review was conducted to synthesize the available evidence on the relationship between technology use, digital competencies, and feelings of loneliness and social isolation among adults aged 65 years and older. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies published between 2020 and 2025. Eligible studies included primary research involving older adults living in community settings or residential care facilities and without previous pathological conditions. This registration provides an open and transparent record of the methodology used in the review, including the search strategy, eligibility criteria, study selection process, and evidence synthesis procedures. The review examined how information and communication technologies (ICTs) and digital literacy may contribute to social connectedness, access to information, quality of life, autonomy, and independence among older adults, while also identifying factors that influence the successful adoption and use of digital technologies in this population.