Differences in Digital Literacy Across Stages of Old Age and Factors Influencing Life Satisfaction among Older Farmers

This study aimed to examine differences in digital literacy across the stages of old age and to analyze the effects of digital literacy on life satisfaction among Older farmers. Data from 1,005 farmers aged 65 years or older, collected between October and December 2024 from the Digital Divide Survey for Farmers and Fishermen (2024), were analyzed. The findings were as follows: First, significant differences by old age stage were found in mobile device usage ability, digital technology attitude, and digital device self-efficacy, with the young-old group demonstrating higher levels than the middle-old and oldest-old groups. Second, digital technology attitude, artificial intelligence (AI) competency, and digital device self-efficacy had significant positive effects on life satisfaction, with digital technology attitude showing the strongest influence. Based on these findings, the study highlights the need for age-differentiated digital empowerment strategies, confidence-building programs centered on smart senior community centers, and gradual development of AI-related competencies.