The mediating impact of exercise frequency and duration on the relationship between digital health literacy and health among older adults: A cross-sectional study

Although several studies have discussed the relationships among digital health literacy, health, and exercise behavior, few have integrated these 3 factors into a single model. This study aims to address this research gap. This article aims to analyze the impact of digital health literacy on the health of older adults, as well as the mediating mechanisms related to exercise frequency and duration. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Luoyang and Zhengzhou urban areas from December 2023 to January 2024. Utilizing random sampling methods, data were collected from 661 older adults through the "digital health literacy scale," "health scale," and "count of exercise duration and frequency" questionnaires. The data were processed by employing SPSS 20 and Process, v3.0, and analyzed through independent samples t test, 1-way ANOVA (F-test), and mediation testing methods. The results indicate that no statistical significance (P > .05) is observed in terms of the 3 dimensions of digital health literacy, exercise behavior, and health status among older adults with different genders, living conditions, educational backgrounds, and economic status. In contrast, statistical significance (P < .05) is observed in terms of exercise frequency and health status among older adults with varying levels of smoking and drinking. The 3 dimensions of digital health literacy among older adults statistically impact (P < .05) their exercise duration, frequency, and health. The dimension of access and assessment exerts the most significant influence on exercise duration (β = 0.415) and a considerable impact on health (β = 0.214). Furthermore, the impact of exercise duration and frequency on health status is statistically significant (P < .05). In terms of the interactive capability dimension, exercise frequency exerts the most significant influence (β = 0.199). Digital health literacy has a significant impact on the health of older adults. The duration and frequency of exercise play a partial mediating role between older adults' digital health literacy and their physical health status. Digital health literacy can encourage older adults to increase the duration and frequency of exercise, which, in turn, promotes their physical health.