Table 3 Factors for IA in older adults

1. Risk factors for IA in older adults

1.1 Individual factors

1.1.1 Internet as the major avenue for pursuing personal hobbies and interests.

1.1.2 Excessive reliance on the pleasure and enjoyment derived from Internet use.

1.1.3 Utilization of the Internet as the main pastime in an otherwise mundane life.

1.1.4 Loneliness and psychological emptiness leading to overuse of the Internet.

1.1.5 Habitual prolonged Internet use during instances of poor sleep quality.

1.2 Family factors

1.2.1 Household WIFI increasing the risk of prolonged Internet use indoors.

1.2.2 Spousal Internet activities used as justification for one’s own Internet usage.

1.2.3 Negative family dynamics leading to a predominantly Internet-centered lifestyle.

1.3 Peer factors

1.3.1 Peer recommendation and guidance as catalysts for intensified Internet engagement.

1.3.2 Approval from peers regarding proficiency in Internet usage.

1.4 Socio-environmental factors

1.4.1 The widespread daily Internet use spurs offline intolerance.

1.4.2 Internet’s facilitation of social interaction raises dependency risks.

1.5 Internet platform factors

1.5.1 The plenitude of online content triggers endless viewing/browsing behaviors.

1.5.2 Incentive mechanisms of online platforms.

1.5.3 Internet activities associated with addiction risks.

2. Protective factors for IA in older adults

2.1 Individual factors

2.1.1 A higher level of perceived risk regarding internet health hazards.

2.1.2 A stronger sense of self-control.

2.2 Family factors

2.2.1 More family commitment.

2.2.2 Supervision and influence in multigenerational households.