Aging in place, successful aging and digital competencies of older people: A cross-sectional study

Aim: This study aims to evaluate older adults' aging in place, successful aging, and digital competencies, and to examine the relationships among these variables. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional and correlational research design. A total of 380 older adults aged 65 and over, registered at four Family Health Centers located in the city center of Denizli and selected for the sample, were included in the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a Descriptive Information Form, Aging in Place Scale, Successful Aging Scale, and Digital Competency Inventory for Older Adults. Data analysis included Student's t-test, ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Spearman correlation analysis. Results: The mean score for the Aging in Place Scale was 59.62 ± 8.21, and for the Successful Aging Scale 54.59 ± 8.14. The mean scores for digital competencies were: information and data literacy 5.00 ± 2.36, communication and collaboration 18.47 ± 7.90, safety 9.50 ± 4.19, and problem solving 8.08 ± 3.48. Participants with education above primary school, aged 65-69, higher income levels, good health perception, and access to internet via mobile phone/smartphone or computer/tablet demonstrated higher levels of aging in place, successful aging, and digital competency. Furthermore, significant positive correlations were found among aging in place, successful aging, and digital competency. Conclusion: Older adults demonstrated moderate levels of aging in place and good levels of successful aging. Enhancing digital competencies contributes positively to aging in place satisfaction and successful aging. Within elderly health services, continuous and effective educational programs, including digital technology use, should be implemented to support aging in place and successful aging.