Digital Engagement and Successful Aging: A Longitudinal Analysis of Older Adults in China

This study examined the reciprocal relationships between digital engagement and successful aging among 4,319 Chinese older adults aged 60 to 75, using four waves (2016–2023) of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey. Cross-lagged panel models showed that digital engagement positively predicted successful aging in earlier waves (β = 0.144–0.158, p < .001), but the effect weakened and reversed in later waves (β = −0.028, p < .05). Successful aging consistently predicted higher levels of digital engagement (β = 0.046–0.082, p < .001). These reciprocal associations were stronger among women and urban residents. The full model accounted for 45.5% of the variance in successful aging and 49.9% in digital engagement. Findings suggest that moderate digital engagement supports aging outcomes, whereas excessive or prolonged engagement may reduce its benefits. Interventions should encourage balanced digital participation and address gender and urban–rural disparities to promote successful aging.