Linking Online Learning Time to Social Participation Among Older Adults: Urban-Rural Differences in the Online Learning Performance and Efficacy Pathways

ObjectivesLifelong learning is known to promote social participation among older adults. However, in the digital age, it remains unclear whether online learning yields a positive effect and what the mechanisms are.MethodsA total of 1,013 older adults aged 60 years and above completed the online learning efficacy scale, the online learning performance checklist, and the social participation checklist. Participants also self-reported their online learning time.ResultsOnline learning time was positively associated with social participation. The association was mediated by online learning efficacy and by a sequential pathway from online learning performance to online learning efficacy. These mediating effects were stronger among rural older adults than among urban older adults.ConclusionActive digital engagement among older adults may promote social participation, with particularly strong benefits for rural older adults. To promote active aging, future policies should incorporate internet-based learning programs into social participation interventions in rural areas.