The impact of digital reverse mentoring on the digital integration of older adults in Macao

Abstract Objective This study examines how digital reverse mentoring from younger generations (including social workers and adult children) promotes digital integration among older adults in Macao and tests the mediating role of self‐perceived aging and the moderating role of household internet availability. Background As population aging and digitalization accelerate, many older adults struggle with digital technologies, limiting participation and well‐being. Intergenerational reverse mentoring may help seniors build digital skills and improve attitudes toward aging, yet evidence in Macao remains limited. Methods Data were collected from 402 adults aged 60 and older across 10 day centers. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analyses, and mediation and moderation models were used to assess the relationships among digital reverse mentoring, self‐perceived aging, digital integration, and home internet access. Results Digital reverse mentoring significantly improved digital integration (β = 0.416, p < .01). Self‐perceived aging significantly mediated this relationship (indirect effect = 0.301, 72.4% of total effect, p < .01). Household internet availability strengthened both the direct and indirect pathways. Conclusion Reverse mentoring effectively enhances digital integration among older adults, with self‐perceived aging serving as a key mechanism. Adequate home internet access further amplifies these benefits.