Digital exclusion is a growing public health concern that disproportionately affects older adults, limiting their access to online resources and social connections. A new study published in Health Data Science analyzed data from five major aging cohort studies across 24 countries, revealing that older adults without internet access are at a significantly higher risk of developing depressive symptoms. The research highlights that individuals in lower wealth quintiles and those with infrequent contact with their children are particularly vulnerable. With digital exclusion rates ranging from 21.1% in Denmark to 96.9% in China, the findings underscore the urgent need for policies that address internet accessibility and digital literacy among aging populations.

The study’s authors emphasize that bridging the digital divide is essential for improving mental well-being and social inclusion among older adults. Ensuring equitable access to digital technologies can help mitigate depression risks, particularly for those with limited familial support and financial resources. The researchers advocate for coordinated efforts from governments, healthcare organizations, and communities to implement targeted interventions that facilitate digital inclusion. As internet use becomes increasingly integral to everyday life, integrating older populations into the digital world is not just about technological access—it is a critical step toward enhancing their overall quality of life.

IPHES-CERCA leads a study published in Nature on ‘Pink,’ a facial fragment discovered in Sima del Elefante.

This fossil has been assigned to Homo aff. erectus, a different and more primitive species than Homo antecessor.

This study confirms that Western Europe was inhabited by at least two different species of hominins during the Early Pleistocene.