The Level of Technophobia Among Older Adults in China in the Context of Digital Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the level of technophobia among Chinese older adults in digital health and compare it with global studies to identify characteristics and differences.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

SETTING AND

PARTICIPANTS

Chinese adults aged 60 and older.

METHODS

We conducted a computer-based search in 12 databases for cross-sectional studies using the Chinese Version of the Technophobia Scale (TS-CN) that reported technophobia levels among older adults in China, covering publications from the inception until August 5, 2025. Literature screening, data extraction, and bias risk assessment of included studies were independently completed by 2 researchers. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.0 software.

RESULTS

The study included 15 papers with a total of 7452 participants. The pooled mean total score of technophobia among older adults in China was 37.25 (95% CI, 35.82-38.68). The pooled mean item scores for techno-anxiety, techno-paranoia, and privacy concerns dimensions were 2.87 (95% CI, 2.68-3.05), 2.82 (95% CI, 2.51-3.12), and 2.98 (95% CI, 2.73-3.23), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed statistically significant differences in technophobia levels among older adults in China based on different age, education level, average monthly personal income, and residence place (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: In China, technophobia among older adults is moderate, particularly concerning privacy concerns dimensions. Higher technophobia levels are observed in those who are older, have lower education and income, and live in rural areas. This trend is global amid aging and digitalization. Health care professionals and policymakers should identify high-risk groups and risk factors, developing targeted interventions through multidisciplinary collaboration to reduce technophobia, offering a Chinese perspective for international exchange.