Selective sharing and social bonding: a qualitative study of online health information behaviour among older adults in Shanghai

The health information landscape has been revolutionised by the advent of social media, significantly affecting older adults’ access to and interaction with online health information. In this study, we examine how older adults interact with health information on social media. In total, 30 participants aged 60 years and older from Shanghai were interviewed, focusing on their health information-seeking behaviour, perceptions, and subsequent actions using a semi-structured, in-depth interview approach. Furthermore, in this study, we employed grounded theory to analyze the data, and the results revealed that older adults utilise a comprehensive cognitive process for evaluating health information. Information-sharing decisions among participants were significantly influenced by ethical considerations and a sense of responsibility. Selective sharing, particularly within close relationships, underscored the role of online health information in fostering connections. This study illuminates the multifaceted nature of older adults’ interactions with online health information and emphasises the significance of ethical considerations in sharing behaviours. Furthermore, this study provides practical implications for public health initiatives and regulatory measures to empower older adults to make informed decisions in an evolving digital healthcare landscape.