The Effect of Displacement During Extreme Circumstances on Digital Engagement and Well-Being Among Older Adults

Objectives: Currently, there are increasing instances of forced displacement due to extreme circumstances such as armed conflicts. Under threatening conditions, certain factors, such as displacement, can decrease one's well-being. On the other hand, specific capabilities and resources such as digital engagement, may serve as coping mechanisms. This study examines the associations between digital engagement and the well-being of older adults during armed conflict situations, comparing displaced persons to those who were not displaced. Methods: Ninety-three displaced and 150 nondisplaced older Israeli adults aged 60 and above completed an online or paper questionnaire two months after the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war on 7th of October 2023. Measurements included indicators of well-being (loneliness, depressive symptoms, subjective health, and sense of control), rocket threat, digital engagement, digital ageism, and socio-demographic characteristics. Results: Displaced older adults reported lower subjective health, higher levels of loneliness, and a diminished sense of control, compared to those not displaced. Following the war, individuals who were displaced reported using fewer digital devices, exhibited different patterns of use, and reported twice as many limitations in using technology. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that various aspects of digital engagement were associated with different well-being components, mitigating the initial negative effects of displacement on loneliness and subjective health. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of digital engagement as a potential protective factor for the well-being of older adults during extreme circumstances such as armed conflicts.