Smart Device Usage and Well-Being: Are Seniors Different from Non-Seniors

The proliferation of smart devices is transforming daily life, yet a notable digital divide persists in their usage. This study investigates whether the divide in smart device usage is associated with a well-being divide and whether this association varies by age. Using the Mann-Whitney U test, we explore the relationship between smart device usage and well-being scores among 21,966 individuals, including 5,053 senior citizens and 16,913 non-seniors in England. Our findings indicate that individuals using smartwatches, smart speakers, smart home security systems, and smart energy devices experience significantly better well-being than non-users. While these devices generally improve well-being for both seniors and non-seniors, the positive effects are more pronounced among younger users. Interestingly, using smart kitchen appliances is not associated with seniors’ well-being.