The Role of Technology Accessibility in Social Connectedness and Health-Related Quality of Life for Rural Older Adults

Objectives This study aims to examine the relationship between social connectedness and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among older adults, focusing on the impact of technology accessibility and geographic context (urban vs. rural).Methods Data from the 2021 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) with 2303 participants aged 65 and older were used. Confirmatory factor analysis validated measures of social connectedness and HRQoL, followed by regression analysis to explore their relationship, including the moderating roles of technology accessibility and geographic context.Results The findings indicate a significant positive relationship between social connectedness and HRQoL. However, technology accessibility moderates this relationship only in rural areas, where lower technology access enhances the positive effects of social connectedness on HRQoL.Discussion The results suggest that interventions to improve HRQoL among older adults should consider different geographical locations. Notably, promoting in-person interactions is crucial for enhancing the HRQoL of rural older adults.