The research looks at use of social media by 60 to 75-year-old Chinese adults, with a focus on WeChat. This study used a qualitative interpretive approach and interviewed Chinese adults to uncover their social practices of WeChat use in everyday life.
Dr Wenjie Cai, Associate Professor in Tourism at the University of Greenwich, said:
“Older Chinese adults have fully embraced WeChat, using it for socialising, mobile payments, news, and more. They've traded traditional newspapers for WeChat news, valuing the platform's cost-saving communication perks and the convenience of mobile payments.
Dr Brad McKenna, Associate Professor in Information Systems at the University of East Anglia said:
“WeChat has evolved beyond a messaging app, now offering social media, health, payment, and shopping features.”
Despite these benefits, the study does point to fears often similar to those held by westerners of the same age when it comes to technology.
The study reports that some users are cautious of the sharing too much information and scams, especially in relation to their banking, and that some avoid smart phones all together.
Despite these concerns, WeChat still plays an important role in the lives of senior Chinese adults.
Dr Hyunsun Yoon, co-author of the study said:
“WeChat has become a lifeline for seniors, connecting them with friends and organising outings. They share daily life updates and even play games in chat groups, often exchanging "good morning stickers" to foster connections”
The study was authored by two University of Greenwich researchers, Dr Wenjie Cai and Dr Hyunsun Yoon, in collaboration with the University of East Anglia, and has been recently accepted in the journal of Information Technology & People.
The full paper is available to read here.
