Global digital engagement and senior technology usage

Research and reports indicate evolving patterns in digital engagement across various age groups. A scoping review of studies from 2015 to 2025 suggests that “digital detox” attempts and social media restrictions for children have shown small or inconsistent effects on mental health, noting significant methodological flaws in existing research.

Among older demographics, smartphone usage is increasing. In Germany and Austria, 81 percent of those aged 70 and above use messaging apps weekly, a rate higher than traditional telephone calls. This group also shows active use of AI applications. More broadly, for individuals over 60, smartphones have become the preferred device for accessing platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. While digital engagement may serve as a tool to combat loneliness, concerns persist regarding data privacy, online fraud, and the link between mobile use and mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

Additionally, new interaction patterns have emerged on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, such as the ‘tap tap’ phenomenon during live broadcasts, which users employ to signal content relevance to recommendation algorithms.