A model of computer-mediated social support among older adults
Authors
Advisor
Date
Embargo until
Language
Book title
Publisher
Peer Reviewed
Type
Research Area
Jurisdiction
Other Titles
See at
Abstract
Currently, older adults are among the fastest growing online users, and the Internet/e-mail could serve as a new support system for these individuals. The purpose of this study was to test "A Model of Computer-Mediated Social Support Among Older Adults" that explains relationships among a computer-mediated social network (CMSN), functional social support from that network (CMFSS), and psychological well-being of older adults. This was a one-time single group descriptive study employing a Web survey. The questionnaire was posted on the SeniorNet Website from April 5 to June 9, 2002. Participants were eligible if they were: (1) age 55 or older; (2) able to use the Internet/e-mail independently; and (3) currently residing in a community setting. The data were directly populated to an ACCESSRTM database. The data then was imported into SPSS for data screening, and then into AMOS 4.0 for the SEM analysis. A two-step approach (measurement model test first, then full model test) was employed in this model testing. Validity of the overall model was examined employing the cross-validation method. A total of 809 SeniorNet users participated in this study. The majority of participants were white (751, 92.8%) with a mean age of 67.8. About two-thirds of participants (511, 64%) were female. The majority (641, 80.3%) reported at least some college education. Model testing showed that, overall, the proposed model fit the sample data. The fit indices were: chi2/df, 2.86 (chi 2 = 1358.39, df = 475, p < .001), GFI, .90; RMSEA, .05; CFI, .88; NFI, .82. Specific findings demonstrated that computer time, computer knowledge, age, gender, and physical health directly influenced CMSN, and CMSN had a positive impact on CMFSS. Computer-mediated social support, however, did not have a significant impact on psychological well-being. The supported relationships between CMSN and CMFSS suggest that health care professionals may use Internet/e-mail to provide important health-related support (e.g., information and support groups) to older adults. The non-significant relationships could have been due to other confounding variables or measurement issues in psychological well-being; this calls for further research.