Research Project Title:
Digital Inclusion for Older Adults
Principal Investigator:
Professor Vincent W. P. LEE, Academy of Wellness and Human Development – Department of Social Work
Total Funding Awarded:
$150,000
Underpinning Research:
Professor Lee’s current study investigates how older adults in Hong Kong access health information online, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights challenges such as gaps in digital literacy and the effects of social exclusion. Findings from the qualitative in-depth interviews reveal varying levels of digital proficiency among participants, with many utilising the "HA Go" app and other online service platforms for healthrelated information. The pandemic has increased online engagement among older adults; however, barriers persist, including complex user interfaces and a lack of confidence.
Additionally, findings from a quantitative survey with 802 interviewees aged 55 and above underscore the critical role of older adults' social capital—both online and offline—in influencing their use of online health platforms. Specifically, bonding social capital, characterised by connections with community entities such as social service providers and neighbours, emerges as a significant predictor of engagement. These relationships foster trust and facilitate information sharing, encouraging active participation in digital health services.
Social Impact:
While the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered increased online engagement by people from all age groups, many older adults in Hong Kong still encounter obstacles like physical and cognitive limitations, complex user interfaces and a lack of confidence in using digital platforms. By fostering stronger community ties between them and community stakeholders such as social workers, families and friends, older adults could be empowered to utilise online resources more effectively to enhance their well-being.
This study is pivotal in informing policymakers, social service providers, and IT developers about the specific needs of older adults, leading to the development of user-friendly technologies and tailored support programs. We can potentially develop a more inclusive digital environment with digital platforms for older adults to access health services and information more easily. Ultimately, this research can contribute to bridging the digital divide so that older adults can take full advantage of the convenience of digitalised health services to promote healthy ageing.
Selected Grants Awarded:
The acquisition of online health information by Hong Kong older adults and their physical and mental wellbeing. (Funding body: Research Network for Healthy Ageing, Capacity: PI. Ref. No.: RHNA202305. Funding: $150,000. Study Period: 15/09/2023 – 31/03/2025)
Selected publication and source:
- Lee, V., Cheng, D. Y. Y., Lit, K. K. D., Buaton, H., & Lam, E. (2025). Active ageing in the digital era: the role of new technologies in promoting the wellbeing of older people in Hong Kong. Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work and Development, 1– 20. https://doi.org/10.1080/29949769.2025.2457363
- Lee, V. W. P., Ling, H. W. H., & Xu, J. (2024). Inequality and deprivation in an affluent community: A case study of the livelihood of low-income households in Central and Western District, Hong Kong. Social Sciences and Humanities Open, 10, Article 100960.
- Lee, V. W. P., Lai, D. W. L., & Ruan, Y. (2022). Receptivity and readiness for cultural competence training amongst the social workers in Hong Kong. The British Journal of Social Work, 52(1), 6-25.
- Lee, V. W. P., Lai, D. W. L., & Ou, X. (2022). Perspectives of community processes in establishing community-based mental health services in Hong Kong: A case study. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 16(7).
- Lee, V. W. P., Ling, H. W. H., Cheung, J. C. S., Tung, S. Y. C., Leung, C. M. Y., & W ong, Y. C. (2021). Technology and family dynamics: The relationships among children’s use of mobile devices, family atmosphere and parenting approaches. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal. doi: 10.1007/s10560-021-00745-0
