Contributions from the internet for elderly people: a review of the literature

The internet has introduced new methods for information acquisition, reasoning, communication and leisure. More than any other vehicle, it enables easy access to general and scientific information on health. Based on a review of the literature, this study discusses the contributions from the internet for elderly people along three different lines: influence on wellbeing; sources of information on physical activity and health; and forms of leisure expression. The results indicate that, for elderly people, the internet is an effective means for disseminating information on health and physical activity. It is a leisure pursuit and an important tool for preventing social isolation and depression, and it also stimulates brain activity. It is concluded that appropriate use of the Internet contributes positively towards elderly people's wellbeing, both because of its informative and divertive nature and because of the leaning process engendered through its use.