Internet Use and Life Satisfaction Among Chinese Middle-Aged and Older Adults: The Role of Volunteering and Social Trust

Using data from 1,484 participants in the Chinese Social Survey (CSS), we analyzed the relationships among internet use, social trust, volunteer engagement, and life satisfaction. Our findings indicate that greater internet use correlates with enhanced older adults' life satisfaction. Volunteering positively mediates the relationship between internet use and life satisfaction. Furthermore, social trust moderates the relationship between internet use and volunteering. Internet use and social trust are significant factors affecting volunteering and life satisfaction among older Chinese adults. Policymakers should foster equitable internet access and support initiatives that encourage online engagement and build trust among older adults.