Investigating older adults' social networks and coproduction activities for health

In this survey study, we extend previous research by investigating the influence of both whole network and individual ego networks on older adults' perceived well-being from the perspective of salutogenesis. We especially take interest in their coproduction engagement where people actively involve one another in doing different types of activities to maintain health. Participants included 173 older adults aged 60 or older from retirement communities and people who age-in-place. Using social network analysis, we found network characteristics like density, degree centrality, or diameter were not associated with older adults' coproduction engagement and psychological well-being. We further found that coproduction activities may be an important mediator because our CCRC and AiP participants had similar level of coproductions and psychological well-being. Based on the results, we suggest that technological designs should facilitate older adults' coproduction by supporting diversity, expanding coproduction networks, and having customizations for different community structures in order to promote smart and connected health.

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