Use of Computers and the Internet among Older Adults in the United States and the P. R. of China: A Cross-Cultural Study

Bob Du Lee, Pennsylvania State University
Geoffrey Godbey, Pennsylvania State University
Yaoyin Zhu, Ministry of Civil Affairs, People's Republic of China

Among the most important trends in both modern and developing nations are rapidly aging populations and huge advances in information communication technologies. In combination, these trends have profound implications for the lives of older adults, their health, and their use of leisure. This study explores differences in the use of computers and the Internet by older adults in the United States and the China through an online survey conducted in 2002. Data was provided by a group of key informants from two countries (n=30). Results show that significant differences exist between two group of respondents in their view of constraints and benefits regarding to the use computers and the Internet by older adults living in the different cultural environment. Research implications for further inquiry on relevant issues are discussed.