The complex relationship between the digital divide, social capital, and mental health among older adults: a multi-method path decomposition

This study empirically establishes that the digital divide functions as a double-edged sword for older adults' mental health, with its net effect contingent upon the complex interplay between direct technological benefits and indirect social costs. These findings indicate that future digital inclusion policies must transcend the narrow focus on bridging physical access gaps to prioritize "empowering trust." This objective can be realized through targeted digital literacy interventions that enable older adults to navigate technology safely, thereby advancing the broader policy objective of healthy aging.