Bridging the digital divide in smart older adult care: how digital literacy shapes adoption through task–technology fit and aging attitudes

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In the digital era, smart care products (SCPs) for older adults have opened up a new potential for satisfying the tailored demands of older adults and encouraging positive aging. However, the digital divide among older adults has emerged as a critical barrier to the widespread adoption and promotion of such products. The existing literature has yet to clarify whether and how the digital literacy (DL) of older adults influences their SCP adoption intention. To address this gap, this study investigates the relationship between DL and SCP adoption intention. Research Design and Methods: This study analyzes questionnaire data collected offline from 627 Chinese older adults, constructing a research model grounded in task–technology fit (TTF) theory and employing structural equation modeling for empirical validation. Results: Findings show that older adults’ intention to use SCPs is positively influenced by their DL level. Perceived TTF (PTTF) mediates the relationship between DL and adoption intention. Furthermore, positive aging attitudes (PAA) moderate the relationship between PTTF and adoption intention. In addition, the indirect positive effect of DL on adoption intention via PTTF is amplified when older individuals exhibit elevated PAA. Discussion and Implications: This study confirms the crucial role of DL in influencing the adoption of SCPs by older adults. It enhances theoretical comprehension of the effect of DL on technology adoption, broadens the potential use of TTF theory within the domain of smart older adult care, and provides practical recommendations for the advancement of SCPs.