Abstract
BACKGROUND: To analyze the factors influencing the digital Literacy of the rural elderly, this study conducted interviews with people aged 60 and above in rural towns in eastern, central, and western China. The study examines the correlation between digital literacy and influencing factors among the elderly. METHODS: The categories of digital literacy and influencing factors were first identified. The study selected digital activities such as digital operations and digital social interactions, along with influencing factors such as education, income, and health status, for correlation analysis. RESULTS: The correlation analysis showed that good education, income, and health status are significantly positively correlated with digital literacy. CONCLUSION: Most aspects of digital literacy are significantly positively correlated with educational background, income level, and health status. Therefore, it is important to provide education and training opportunities to improve the digital skills of rural elderly people with low education and income levels. Enhancing social welfare for the rural elderly and improving their economic living standards are crucial. Additionally, more attention to the health status of the rural elderly will help increase their acceptance and usage of digital technology. Improving digital literacy can lead to higher happiness and better quality of life for the rural elderly.