Digital Dependency and the Silent Struggles of Aging: Depression and Loneliness in Focus – A Cross-sectional Study

Background: The growing use of digital technology among older adults has brought attention to its potential psychosocial consequences. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of digital dependency in the geriatric population and its association with depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 274 community-dwelling adults aged 60 years and above (mean age = 71.45 years, standard deviation [SD] = 5.12; 58% female). Participants were categorized into digital dependent (score >20; n = 148) and not dependent ( n = 126) groups. Psychosocial factors were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale, generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7), and the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U -test, Chi-square test, Spearman’s correlation, and logistic regression. Results: The mean digital dependency score was 20.06 (SD = 10.47). Significant group differences were found for depression ( P < 0.05) and loneliness ( P < 0.001), but not for anxiety, age, sex, socioeconomic status, or smartphone use duration. Digital dependency was positively correlated with loneliness ( r = 0.36, P < 0.01) and depression ( r = 0.27, P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that loneliness and depressive symptoms were the significant predictors of digital dependency. Conclusion: Digital dependency among older adults is significantly linked to depression and loneliness. These findings underscore the need for interventions promoting balanced digital engagement to safeguard psychosocial well-being in later life.