A Structural Equation Model of Digital Inclusion, Active Aging, and Perceived Value in Shaping the Longevity Economy
Main Article Content
Abstract
This study aims to (1) validate the measurement model of digital inclusion, perceived value, active aging, and the longevity economy using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA); (2) examine the causal relationships among these constructs through structural equation modeling (SEM) and (3) investigate the mediating role of perceived value. Data were collected from 400 older adults in Bangkok and analyzed using CFA and SEM. The CFA results indicated a good model fit, with all factor loadings exceeding 0.70, confirming strong convergent validity. The SEM results also demonstrated a satisfactory model fit (χ²/df = 2.51, GFI = 0.93, AGFI = 0.90, NFI = 0.94, CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.049, SRMR = 0.041). The findings revealed that digital inclusion significantly influences perceived value and active aging, while both variables positively affect the longevity economy. Mediation analysis confirmed that perceived value and active aging significantly transmit the effects of digital inclusion. Qualitative findings highlighted challenges such as digital inequality, limited digital literacy, and cybersecurity concerns, while also showing that digital inclusion enhances social participation, economic engagement, and well-being. The study recommends improving digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, strengthening cybersecurity, and developing age-inclusive markets to support the longevity economy.
Highlights
Digital inclusion plays a fundamental role in fostering active aging and strengthening participation in the longevity economy among older adults. The findings indicate that digital skills and meaningful technology use are more important than mere access in enhancing perceived value, which subsequently encourages greater engagement in social, learning, and economic activities. Perceived value acts as a key mechanism linking digital inclusion to active aging outcomes, suggesting that older adults are more likely to adopt and continuously use digital technologies when they perceive them as useful, easy to use, and beneficial to their daily lives. Qualitative evidence further demonstrates that trust, usability, and tangible benefits are critical factors influencing sustained digital engagement and economic participation. These findings provide important insights into how digital inclusion can support healthy aging, social participation, and sustainable economic development in rapidly aging societies such as Bangkok and the broader ASEAN region.
Article Details
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Copyright: CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
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