Digital Resources and Social Connectedness Among Ethnic Minority Older Adults: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: Not reported

• Effect Size: 81.8% pooled prevalence of internet use

• Primary Outcome: Prevalence of internet use among ethnic minority older adults

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: Device usage rates: computers 66.7%, smartphones 63.2%, tablets 29.3%

• Confidence Interval: 95% CI reported but specific values not provided in abstract

Clinical Application

High feasibility given widespread digital device availability, though access barriers need addressing Highly relevant to Australia's multicultural population; aligns with Aged Care Quality Standards promoting social connection; potential integration with My Aged Care digital platforms and culturally appropriate aged care services Ethnic minority older adults in multicultural societies, particularly relevant for aged care and community health services

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Being socially connected is essential for health and well-being. Nonetheless, many older adults face social isolation, especially in ethnically diverse societies. Digital technologies offer a pragmatic approach to addressing problems with social connectedness; however, a consolidated understanding of their association with social connectedness among ethnic minority older adults remains unaddressed. OBJECTIVE: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the prevalence and utility of digital resources in promoting social connectedness among ethnic minority older adults. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis was guided by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Studies were retrieved from 4 electronic databases. A random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the pooled prevalence along with its 95% CI. RESULTS: Twelve studies were included. The research approaches used by the included studies were as follows: quantitative (n=5), qualitative (n=5), and mixed methods (n=2). Overall, the estimated prevalence of internet use, which was defined as engaging in online activities through digital devices, was 81.8%. Commonly used digital devices were computers (66.7%), smartphones (63.2%), and tablets (29.3%). Sociodemographic, economic, and health-related factors influenced the adoption and use of digital resources among ethnic minority older adults. These older adults relied on digital resources to build meaningful social connections through social participation, maintaining cultural and religious ties, promoting transnational social networks, and fostering their potential for social connectedness. However, digital resources were not always useful for social connectedness and adversely affected in-person contact. CONCLUSIONS: Digital resources can promote social connectedness among ethnic minority older adults by enabling them to maintain their cultural and social values. Cities and regions aiming to promote the social connectedness and well-being of ethnic minority older adults should consider intersectional factors that affect access to digital resources and the sustainable adoption of digital resources.

References

1. 1.Amoah, P. A., Ameyaw, E. K., Bhowmik, M. K., Adotey, P. N., & Donkor, A. (2026). Digital resources and social connectedness among ethnic minority older adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis. JMIR Aging. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnac062