Internet-Connected Technology and Resilience in Older Adults Using Community-Based Long-Term Care

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected older adults, especially through isolation and reduced activity. Many showed resilience through adaptive coping, aiding adjustment beyond the pandemic. In Taiwan, over 4,000 community long-term care centers-serving frail older adults and promoting healthy aging-were shut down. To sustain care, many centers adopted internet-based technologies, a practice continued post-pandemic. This study examined whether internet-connected technology use is associated with resilience in older adults in community-based long-term care. In July 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults aged 65 and older at community long-term care centers in Taipei and New Taipei City. 289 valid responses were collected. Resilience was measured using the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC 10). Additional data included sociodemographic factors, frailty status, use of internet-connected technology, and other relevant variables. Structural equation modeling (SEM) identified factors linked to resilience and tested the mediating effect of internet-connected technology. The mean CD-RISC 10 score was 37.45 (SD = 10.05), with lower scores in emotional recovery items. SEM showed that non-frail status (β=-0.24, p < 0.001) and internet-connected technology use (β = 0.14, p = 0.013) were significantly associated with greater resilience. Technology use also had a small but significant mediating effect between frailty and resilience (β=-0.03, p = 0.041), accounting for about 10% of the total effect. The model showed moderate fit (χ²/df=4.63, CFI=0.91, RMSEA=0.11). Resilience in older adults may be strengthened not only through frailty prevention but also through use of internet-connected technology. Although the mediating effect was modest, the findings highlight the value of digital engagement. Public health strategies should support frailty prevention and access to internet-connected technologies in long-term care to enhance resilience and preparedness. Key messages • Resilience in older adults is linked to non-frail status, social connection, and low loneliness; promoting engagement and frailty prevention may help. • Technology use is positively associated with resilience and may help older adults stay connected and prepared for future crises.