Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Keywords

health-related information, social media

Abstract

This study explored how older adults in selected barangays in Cavite use social media to access health-related information. The research aimed to understand their engagement with such content and the methods they use to assess its accuracy. The study provides insights into the strategies older adults employ to evaluate the reliability of health information found on social media. A descriptive-analytical quantitative design was utilized, with data collected using a self-developed instrument from three barangays. A total of 376 respondents were selected through proportionate stratified random sampling based on specific criteria. Most respondents were aged 60–65 years, female, retired, low-income, and had at least a high school or bachelor’s degree. Findings indicate that the extent of social media usage for health-related information was “Somewhat Frequent.” Although older adults engage with social media, it was not their primary source of health information. Validation practices were influenced more by social relationships, as older adults preferred verifying health information through family or friends. Higher education and income were associated with more frequent use of social media for health purposes. Trust in social media health information was “Somewhat Frequent,” with a preference for verified content from health professionals. In this context, social media served only as a supplementary channel and was not regarded as a trustworthy or authoritative source for health matters. While social media is becoming an increasingly common source of health information among older adults, most respondents still rely more on medical professionals and family or friends. Most participants were younger older adults (60–65 years old), female, retired, held a bachelor’s degree, and had an income below 5,000 pesos. Despite being grouped according to demographics, both educational attainment and income showed significant differences, indicating that both the extent of use and validation practices remained at “Somewhat Frequent” levels within this age group. This suggests that older adults with higher educational attainment tend to have stronger analytical skills and are more skeptical before accepting information as factual. Similarly, those with higher income have greater access to reliable sources, allowing them to validate information more effectively. These findings highlight the need for stronger digital health literacy and targeted support to help older adults select credible health-related information online, improve decision-making, and reduce misinformation. The study recommends expanding research to other regions and exploring additional factors influencing older adults’ use of social media for health information. In nursing education, digital health literacy can be integrated through activities such as evaluating online information, simulations, and creating educational content. Nurses should guide patients in accessing reliable, evidence-based resources. Local government units and senior citizen organizations can organize digital literacy workshops to assist older adults in sourcing and understanding online health information. Public health campaigns should promote credible websites and share simple, engaging materials to make social media a safer space for health information.

First Advisor

Noel P. Ligaya, RN, MAN, DNM

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