| Sumario: | China's rapidly aging population necessitates innovative strategies to address associated health challenges. This study investigates the impact of internet usage on older adults aged 60+ years' health using nationally representative data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS). Employing rigorous econometric methods, including Probit regression and propensity score matching, we find that internet engagement significantly enhances both physical and mental health outcomes, increasing the probability of health improvement by 8.6% and 19.7%, respectively. Mediation analysis reveals that subjective well-being serves as a key psychological mechanism in this relationship. Notably, heterogeneity analysis demonstrates particularly strong effects among male seniors and individuals aged 60–69 or 80+ years. These findings highlight internet adoption as a viable public health intervention for aging populations. We recommend targeted policy initiatives to improve digital access and literacy among older adults aged 60+ years, thereby reducing health disparities and promoting successful aging in China's digital era.
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