Willingness to invest in active aging technologies for physical independence in chinese urban older adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v84.119890Keywords:
Active aging, physical independence, technology acceptance, digital competence, willingness to invest, inclusive health, older adults, ChinaAbstract
Objective. This study quantifies urban Chinese older adults' willingness to invest in active aging technologies and examines the determinants of demand for maintaining physical independence across demographic, health, and digital competence dimensions.
Methods. Drawing on contingent valuation data from 856 urban older adults in Beijing, Chengdu, and Wuhan, a double-bounded dichotomous choice approach was employed. A two-part econometric framework (Probit and OLS) was used to estimate investment willingness and its predictors. The analysis integrated the Technology Acceptance Model, Protection Motivation Theory, and Andersen's Behavioral Model.
Results. Mean monthly investment willingness was CNY 190 (95% CI: 179–201) for a comprehensive active aging technology package, with CNY 114 for basic safety and fall-prevention functions and CNY 161 for health and physical function monitoring. Household income, chronic disease burden, digital competence, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use were significant predictors. High-digital-competence respondents exhibited 54% higher investment willingness than low-competence counterparts. An inverted age gradient was observed, with young-old respondents (60–69) expressing higher willingness than oldest-old (80+) individuals.
Conclusions. Urban older adults demonstrate meaningful demand for technologies that maintain physical independence, though affordability and digital competence gaps persist. Findings inform subsidy design and product strategies for inclusive active aging markets.
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