Can the internet mitigate the negative effect of widowhood on Quality of Life? A gender analysis

Abstract Widowhood often reduces the Quality of Life individuals advanced ages by negatively affecting their social network ties. Yet conversely, Internet has also created new opportunities for communication and interaction, thus contributing to improved Life. This research analyses role in relationship between widowhood from a gender perspective. study focuses on 31,814 aged 65 or over residing 17 European countries who participated Wave 6 SHARE – Survey Health, Ageing Retirement Europe. The linear regression highlighted that varies according gender. More specifically, Europe, widowed women 65+ using is .414 higher (CI=.006 .0822) than widows do not use married de facto whether they Internet. results have relevant implications development policies suggest need develop digital inclusion projects targeting older people, particularly widows, help promote