Online activity and internet addiction in people in late adulthood – study overview

Abstract

The Internet is a medium that provides its users with many benefits. It enables the establishment and maintenance of social contacts, provides entertainment, and is a source of comprehensive information. In addition, the network plays an increasingly important role in education, work, and trade. However, when listing the advantages of the Internet, one cannot overlook the fact that its use can pose various risks. One of them is the risk of becoming addicted. The aim of this article is drawing attention to certain aspects related with the use of the Internet by people in late adulthood. In connection with this, an attempt will be made to outline patterns of Internet use by seniors, as well as selected studies on the phenomenon of dependence on this medium in a specific group of people will be shown.