Do Health-Related Factors Affect Smartphone Use in Elderly Individuals

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of physical and cognitive characteristics of elderly individuals living in nursing homes on their smartphone usage. The study included 67 volunteer individuals residing in a nursing home in Muğla. Sociodemographic characteristics and smartphone usage details of the individuals were questioned using a form prepared by the researchers. Participants' physical functions were assessed using the 6-Minute Walk Test, the 5 Times Sit-to-Stand Test, and the Berg Balance Scale. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) was used to examine cognitive function. The mean age of the individuals included in the study was 74.18±3.26 years. A statistically significant moderate positive relationship was observed between the smartphone usage duration and MoCA score of the individuals (r=0.530, p0.05). As per the results of our study, an increase in smartphone usage duration has been seen to be associated with the preservation of cognitive abilities in elderly individuals. We believe that smartphones, which can provide access to various health services when used effectively, as well as meeting the socialization needs of individuals living in nursing homes, play an essential role in promoting active aging.