Problematic smartphone use among community-dwelling and nursing home older adults in Türkiye: a cross-sectional study on prevalence, risk factors, and relationship with mental health

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of problematic smartphone use (PSU) among adults aged ≥60 in Türkiye, identify associated risk factors, examine its link to depression, anxiety, and stress, while comparing community-dwelling and nursing home residents. METHOD: A cross-sectional study, following STROBE guidelines, included 1,011 participants (607 community-dwelling and 404 nursing home residents). Data were collected using a sociodemographic form, the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Chi-square, Pearson correlation, and binary logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: > 0.05). CONCLUSION: PSU is a significant public health concern among older adults, Preventive h policies should address digital usage behaviours among older adults and strengthen psychosocial support mechanisms, especially for those living alone.