Research highlights potential mental health benefits of internet use for adults aged 50 and older. A study published in Nature Human Behavior analyzed data from over 87,000 individuals across 23 high- and middle-income countries. It found that internet activities like emailing, online shopping, and information searches were linked to fewer depressive symptoms, greater life satisfaction, and better self-reported health over a six-year period.

The mental health benefits were particularly significant for individuals with physical inactivity or disabilities. While countries like China, England, and the U.S. showed stronger associations between frequent internet use and better mental health, this trend was not consistent across all nations.