Family support for digital divide among older people: Contact and proximity

The digital divide remains a significant barrier to social participation and well-being among older people. This study investigates the impact of family and intergenerational support on the digital divide (internet use and digital skills) in older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe Wave 8 data (N = 6,374), we employ generalized linear models and multinomial logistic regression to analyze internet use and skills patterns among older people. Results indicate that the presence of children significantly increases internet access and skill levels. Intergenerational contact frequency, which we operationalize as a dimension of support, is most effective at moderate levels. Older people who experience greater geographical distance from (lower proximity to) their children are more likely to use the internet and develop higher digital skills. These findings highlight the importance of family-based support strategies in addressing the digital divide among older people.