Going Outdoors and Computer Use Predict Changes in Self-Rated Cheerfulness of Older Adults Over 10 Years
2024
Going Outdoors and Computer Use Affect Cheerfulness in Older Adults
Sample size: 35687
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tu Yufang, O’Connor Melissa, Grace Rachel
Primary Institution: North Dakota State University
Hypothesis
Does the frequency of going outside and computer ownership/use relate to changes in older adults’ cheerfulness over ten years?
Conclusion
The study found that going outside and using computers can improve cheerfulness in older adults over a decade.
Supporting Evidence
- Positive affect decreases mortality risks and enhances wellness among older adults.
- Adopting digital technology increases social inclusion among older individuals.
- The trajectory of cheerfulness for individuals without computer use did not change over time.
Takeaway
Older people who go outside more and use computers tend to feel happier over time.
Methodology
Longitudinal multilevel modeling using data from the NHATS Study.
Participant Demographics
Older adults, with covariates including sex, age groups, education level, and self-rated health.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.002 for go-out frequency, p=0.023 for computer use
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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