Predictors in starting and stopping Internet use between 2002 and 2012 by Dutch adults 65 years and older

Abstract

Research has indicated the need to consider the ageing process with technology adoption by older adults. This study examined psychological, health, social and demographic predictors with starting and stopping Internet use by older adults (2002–2012). Data were used from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, and Cox regression analyses were done to test predictors over time with starting or stopping Internet use. The results indicated that older adults starting to use the Internet (11.6%) outnumbered those who stopped (3.1%). Psychological, health, social and demographic predictors separately predicted starting and stopping Internet use. Starting use was predicted by lower age, higher education, normal cognition and living alone. The predictors in stopping use were being younger, having a high sense of mastery and being higher educated. The results need to be interpreted as indicative due to the small number of stoppers. Suggestions are made on how to improve usability.