The Effect of digital literacy on Cognitive Function in the Community Dwelling Elderly: Data from the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans

Purpose : This study was conducted to understand the impact of digital literacy on cognitive function among elderly individuals residing in the community, and to provide foundational data for developing nursing intervention programs aimed at enhancing the cognitive function of these community-dwelling elderly individuals. Methods : A total of 9,920 older adults were selected and analyzed using 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans data. Data was analyzed by Descriptive Statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression using SPSS Statistics 29.0 program(IBM). Result : Interaction with others(r=.27, p<.01), hobbies·leisure(r=.24, p<.01), economic transaction(r=.17, p<.01) and internet search(r=.25, p<.01) are positively associated with cognitive function. The estimated regression model of cognitive function was statistically significant(F=77.278, p<.001). Major factors influencing cognitive function were observed as demographic character(gender, age, religion, employment, educational level, economic status) and digital literacy(Interaction with others, internet search, economic transaction). These factors explained 8.8% of cognitive function. Conclusion : To improve the cognitive function in the community dwelling elderly, it is necessary to develop and apply digital literacy programs.