A Cross Sectional Study to assess the Prevalence of Internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits in Retirees in Chennai, TamilNadu

A Cross Sectional Study to assess the Prevalence of Internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits in Retirees in Chennai, TamilNadu | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article A Cross Sectional Study to assess the Prevalence of Internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits in Retirees in Chennai, TamilNadu Bhuvanesh Aravindh, Swetha NB, Sujitha P, Abhilasha Munisingh, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 13 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background: Internet use has become increasingly common among older adults, including retirees. While digital engagement offers several benefits, excessive or poorly regulated use may lead to internet addiction, an issue that remains underexplored among the elderly, particularly in the Indian context. Objectives: This investigation seeks to determine the extent of internet addiction among retired elderly individuals and to analyze how different personality traits are related to internet use behavior in retired elderly in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Methods : An cross sectional study was carried out among 260 retired senior citizens residing in the urban field practice area of Sree Balaji medical college between November 2024 and November 2025. The study sample was assembled through purposive recruitment. Internet-related behavioral dependence was measured using the CIUS-7 instrument, and personality attributes were captured using the BFI-10 scale. Data handling and statistical evaluation were undertaken with SPSS version 22, employing summary statistics alongside analytical methods such as regression modeling and correlation testing. Results : In the study population, problematic patterns of internet use were identified in 33.9% of participants. Of these, 25.8% exhibited problematic internet use, while an additional 8.1% were classified as being at risk. Normal internet use behaviour was observed in 66.2% of the respondents. Significant associations with internet addiction were noted for variables such as age, marital status, level of education, prior occupation, income source and living arrangement. In contrast, no significant relationship was found with gender. Analysis of personality traits revealed that higher levels of neuroticism and openness to experience were linked with greater likelihood of internet addiction, whereas conscientiousness showed an inverse relationship. Extraversion and agreeableness were not found to have a statistically meaningful association with problematic internet use. Conclusion: Internet addiction was identified as a relevant concern among retired elderly individuals and was influenced by both sociodemographic factors and personality traits. Early identification of retirees at risk and promotion of balanced internet use may help support mental well-being and healthy digital engagement in later life. Internet addiction Retired elderly Personality traits Digital behavior Problematic internet use Older adults India Figures Figure 1 INTRODUCTION The use of the internet has become deeply embedded in daily activities in countries across the globe. Although its use was once largely limited to younger people, older adults are now increasingly engaging with digital technologies. Among retired adults, internet use often serves multiple purposes, including communication with family and peers, information seeking, financial management, entertainment, and assistance with routine activities. This shift reflects improved access to technology and the growing role of digital tools in supporting independence and social participation in later life.[ 1 ]Retirement is a major transition in the life course and may influence how individuals use the internet. Changes such as loss of structured daily routines, reduced social interaction, increased free time, bereavement, and declining physical health can affect coping mechanisms in later life. In this context, the internet may become an important source of companionship, emotional support, or distraction, shaping patterns of use among retirees[ 1 ].Despite increasing awareness, research focusing specifically on older adults remains limited. Reviews of existing literature indicate that retirees are rarely examined as a distinct group, leading to gaps in understanding internet addiction in later life[ 2 ].At the same time, research highlights that internet use among older adults exists along a spectrum. Digital engagement may be beneficial in some contexts while becoming problematic in others, depending on individual vulnerability and circumstances[ 3 ].Concerns related to smartphone use in older adults have further expanded the discussion on digital behaviours in later life, emphasizing the need to look beyond traditional internet access alone[ 4 ]. In India, rapid digital expansion has led to increased internet access across all age groups. National-level evidence identifies internet addiction as an emerging public health concern within the country [5] .Community-based research has shown that problematic internet use is also present among elderly populations, including those living in socioeconomically disadvantaged settings[ 6 ].Apart from sociodemographic determinants, psychological factors contribute significantly to an individual’s likelihood of developing problematic internet use. Evidence from adult studies suggests that long-standing personality traits play a key role in determining patterns of engagement with digital platforms[ 7 ].Aggregated findings from multiple studies demonstrate that problematic internet use is systematically associated with Big Five personality traits, highlighting the value of personality-based explanatory approaches [8] .The vulnerability hypothesis conceptualizes internet addiction as an expression of underlying emotional and personality predispositions rather than excessive use alone [9] .Theoretical models have also highlighted the role of psychological distress in linking personality traits to problematic internet use, suggesting that mental health factors are an important part of this relationship [10] .Evidence from different cultural settings supports the relevance of personality traits in understanding problematic internet use across populations as in an Moroccan population study done by ksikau et al[ 11 ].Similar associations have been reported in Indian populations, indicating that personality-based explanations are applicable within the local context [12]. Given these gaps, there is a clear need for focused epidemiological research examining internet addiction among retirees in India. Chennai, a rapidly urbanizing city with high digital penetration and a growing retired population, allows for an examination of internet addiction levels and their relationship with personality traits within a defined population. Retirees remain an underexplored group in internet addiction research, particularly in India. Assessing prevalence and examining its relationship with personality traits can help identify vulnerable individuals and inform strategies to promote healthy and balanced digital use in later life. METHODOLOGY Study Design This study was a community based cross sectional study done to assess the prevalence of internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits among retired elderly individuals. Study Setting and Study Population The study was conducted among retired elderly persons residing in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Individuals who had retired from active employment and were residing in Chennai, were considered eligible for participation. Study Period Data collection and assessment were conducted across a twelve-month period between November 2024 and November 2025. Sample Size A previously published study from Southern Tamil Nadu by Kumaresh A et al.[ 13 ], documenting a 21.7% occurrence of internet addiction among the elderly, served as the basis for estimating the study sample size. The calculation was performed using a conventional prevalence estimation approach. The calculated sample size was rounded off to 260 participants. Sampling Method The study was conducted in the urban field practice area of the Urban Health Centre attached to Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.A purposive sampling technique was adopted. Retirees residing in the field practice area and attending the Urban Health Centre or contacted during community visits were approached. Inclusion Criteria Retired persons who were living in Chennai, Tamil Nadu at the time of the study Exclusion Criteria Elderly individuals who were not retired Those with significant mental health disorders or advanced cognitive impairment affecting comprehension or reliable response Individuals experiencing serious illness at the time of assessment Persons unwilling to provide consent or participate in the study Data Collection Following the provision of detailed information about the study, written consent was obtained from each participant prior to participation. Information was gathered through direct, in-person interviews using pre-designed structured questionnaires. Before initiating the interview, participants were briefed on the objectives and relevance of the study. Measures were taken to ensure privacy during interviews, and confidentiality of the information provided was strictly maintained at all stages. Study Instruments Compulsive Internet Use Scale – 7 Item Version (CIUS-7) The CIUS-7 instrument was administered to identify and quantify problematic patterns of internet use. The scale comprises seven statements rated on a five-point Likert response format. Higher total scores reflect a greater likelihood and intensity of problematic or addictive internet use. Big Five Inventory – 10 Item Version (BFI-10) Personality characteristics were evaluated using the BFI-10 scale, which captures five broad personality dimensions: extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience. Data Analysis All collected responses were coded and entered into Microsoft Excel, followed by statistical processing using SPSS software version 22. Descriptive measures were generated to summarize participant characteristics and key study variables. Inferential statistical methods were applied to examine associations between internet addiction and personality traits. Statistical significance was determined using a threshold of p < 0.05. Ethics approval and Accordance: Prior approval to conduct the study was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital (Approval No. 002/SBMCH/IHEC/2024/2331). The study was carried out in accordance with the ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Participation was entirely voluntary, and written informed consent was obtained from all respondents prior to participation. Participant anonymity was strictly maintained, and all data were handled confidentially throughout the study period. Data Availability Statement: The datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to ethical considerations and the sensitive nature of the information collected from a marginalised tribal community. However, the data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, subject to appropriate ethical approval and institutional permissions. Budget and Funding The research was undertaken without financial support from external organizations. All expenses related to the study were met by the investigators themselves. RESULTS Sociodemographic Profile of the Participants As presented in Table 1 , a total of 260 retired older adults participated in the study. The largest share of respondents belonged to the 60–70 year age group indicating that most participants were in the early phase of older adulthood. A majority of the participants were married reflecting continued spousal support in later life.In terms of education, primary schooling emerged as the most common level attained suggesting generally modest educational backgrounds. Before retirement, most participants had been engaged in private-sector employment.Living with both spouse and family members was the most frequently reported living arrangement ,highlighting the prevalence of family-based living among retirees. Financial independence was reported by most participants, indicating a reasonable level of economic self-sufficiency. Regarding internet use, normal patterns of use were predominant, observed in 66.2% of the participants, although a notable minority exhibited signs of problematic or compulsive internet use. Table 1: Sociodemographic Characteristics and Internet Use Pattern among Retired Elderly Participants (N = 260) Variable Category Frequency(n) Percentage(%) Age >80 26 10.0 70-80 109 41.9 60-70 122 46.9 <60 3 1.2 Gender Female 122 46.9 Male 138 53.1 Marital Status Married 155 59.6 Widowed 100 38.5 Never Married 5 1.9 Education Professional 4 1.5 Graduate 32 12.3 Intermediate/Diploma 33 12.7 High School 34 13.1 Middle School 61 23.5 Primary School 72 27.7 Illiterate 24 9.2 Previous Occupation Govt Job 102 39.2 Private Job 158 60.8 Living Situation Living With Spouse And Family 103 39.6 Living With Spouse 44 16.9 Living With Family Without Spouse 74 28.5 Living Alone 39 15.0 Income Source Independent 157 60.4 Dependent On Spouse 31 11.9 Dependent On Family 72 27.7 Internet addiction Normal Use 172 66.2 Problematic/Compulsive Use 67 25.8 At Risk 21 8.1 Figure 1 shows the pattern of internet use among the retired elderly participants included in the study. Among the 260 participants, the majority, 172 individuals reported normal use of the internet. However, a sizeable proportion of the retirees demonstrated concerns related to internet use. 67 participants were identified as having problematic or compulsive internet use, while 21 participants were categorized as being at risk of developing internet addiction. Overall, the figure highlights that although normal internet use was most common among retirees, a considerable number exhibited varying levels of problematic or risky internet use. Univariate analysis as in Table.2 showed that internet addiction among retired older adults was not randomly distributed but was closely linked to several sociodemographic characteristics. Age emerged as a relevant factor, with problematic patterns of internet use being more evident among the younger segments of the elderly population. Marital status also influenced internet use behavior, as individuals without spousal support, particularly those who were widowed or never married demonstrated a greater tendency toward problematic or excessive internet use. Educational level displayed a strong relationship with internet addiction, suggesting that greater educational exposure may facilitate increased access to and engagement with digital technologies, thereby elevating the risk of excessive use. Previous occupational background was another important determinant, with retirees from the private sector showing higher levels of problematic internet use than those who had worked in government services. Financial status further contributed to this pattern, as economically independent retirees were more likely to engage in excessive internet use, possibly due to greater access to digital resources. Living arrangement was also significantly associated, with individuals living alone exhibiting higher vulnerability to problematic internet use compared to those residing with family members. In contrast, gender did not demonstrate a meaningful association with internet addiction in the univariate analysis. Variables that demonstrated statistical significance in the univariate analysis were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to identify factors independently associated with internet addiction. After adjustment, age remained an independent predictor of internet addiction. People aged 70–80 years and 60–70 years also showed elevated odds, and were statistically significant while participants aged above 80 years did not show a significant association after adjustment. Marital status retained a significant independent association in both categories. Educational status showed a strong and graded independent relationship with internet addiction. Compared to illiterate participants, significantly higher odds were observed among those with professional education, graduate education , intermediate or diploma education and high school education. Primary and middle school education did not retain statistical significance in the adjusted model. Previous occupation remained independently associated with internet addiction. Participants who had been employed in government services prior to retirement had lower odds of internet addiction compared to those from the private sector. Source of income continued to be a significant predictor after multivariable adjustment. Compared to financially independent retirees, those dependent on family members and those dependent on their spouse demonstrated significantly lower odds of internet addiction. Participants living alone had nearly twice the odds of internet addiction compared to those living with spouse and family members and was statistically significant after adjustment while Other living arrangements did not show significant associations after adjustment. Table 2: Association of Sociodemographic Factors with Internet Addiction among Retired Elderly Participants Variable Internet Addiction X 2 Univariate Analysis Multivariate Analysis NORMAL USE PROBLEMATIC /COMPULSUVE USE AT RISK Crude OR(95%CI) p-value Adjusted Odds ratio p-value Age 2.34 0.002 >80 26 0 0 0.13(0.002 – 7.77) 1.19(0.90-1.68) 0.213 70-80 75 26 8 3.20(0.16 – 64.1) 1.87(1.22-2.86) 0.004 60-70 68 41 13 5.57(0.28 – 110.3) 1.42(1.05-1.93) 0.021 <60 3 0 0 Ref. Ref. __ Gender 0.234 FEMALE 84 26 12 0.75 0.80(0.48 – 1.34) __ __ MALE 88 41 9 Ref. __ __ Marital Status 7.82 0.017 WIDOWED 76 16 8 0.45(0.26 – 0.79) 1.76(1.18 – 2.63) 0.006 NEVER MARRIED 5 0 0 0.13(0.007 – 2.41) 1.69(1.12 – 2.54) 0.011 MARRIED 91 51 13 Ref. Ref. __ Education 21.4 <0.001 PROFESSIONAL 1 3 0 10.63(0.79 – 143.4) 2.47(1.46 – 3.14 <0.001 GRADUATE 14 14 4 6.43(1.80 – 22.9) 2.14(1.63 – 3.75) <0.001 INTERMEDIATE/DIPLOMA 17 12 4 4.71(1.31 – 16.9) 1.89(1.29 – 2.78) 0.001 HIGH SCHOOL 16 14 4 5.63(1.57 – 20.2) 1.62(1.12 – 2.34) 0.010 MIDDLE SCHOOL 49 5 7 1.22(0.36 – 4.16) 1.38(0.96 – 1.99) 0.081 PRIMARY SCHOOL 55 15 2 1.55(0.47 – 5.14) 1.21(0.82 – 1.78) 0.327 ILLITERATE 20 4 0 Ref. Ref. __ Previous Occupation 24.66 <0.001 GOVT JOB 49 40 13 0.26(0.15 – 0.45) 0.68(0.49-0.94) 0.021 PRIVATE JOB 123 27 8 Ref. Ref. __ Income Source 13.2 <0.001 DEPENDENT ON FAMILY 62 8 2 0.21(0.10 – 0.43) 0.48(0.34-0.67) <0.001 DEPENDENT ON SPOUSE 22 4 5 0.52(0.23 – 1.20) 0.64(0.42-0.97) 0.036 INDEPENDENT 88 55 14 Ref. Ref. Living Situation <0.001 LIVING ALONE 28 10 1 11.5 0.57(0.24 – 1.35) 1.93(1.38 – 2.71) <0.001 LIVING WITH FAMILY WITHOUT SPOUSE 59 8 7 0.37(0.17 – 0.78) 1,27(0.92 – 1.75) 0.148 LIVING WITH SPOUSE 24 9 11 1.21(0.58 – 2.52) 1.18(0.86 – 1.62) 0.304 LIVING WITH SPOUSE AND FAMILY 61 40 2 Ref. Ref __ Personality Trait Profile of Retired Elderly Participants Personality traits of the retired elderly participants, assessed using the short version of the Big Five Inventory, indicated a generally balanced personality profile across domains. As summarized in Table 3, most traits were observed at moderate levels, suggesting the absence of extreme personality tendencies within the study population. Participants demonstrated an average level of extraversion, reflecting a balanced orientation toward social interaction without strong inclinations toward either social withdrawal or high sociability. Agreeableness was also observed at a moderate level, indicating a fair degree of interpersonal tolerance and cooperativeness. Conscientiousness stood out as relatively more prominent compared to the other traits, suggesting that characteristics such as carefulness, responsibility, and task-oriented behavior were more commonly expressed among the participants. Neuroticism levels reflected moderate emotional responsiveness, indicating that while participants may experience stress or emotional fluctuations, these were not excessive. Openness to experience was likewise moderate, suggesting an average tendency toward curiosity, imagination, and receptiveness to new experiences. Overall, the findings indicate that the retired elderly participants exhibited largely stable and adaptive personality traits, with conscientiousness being comparatively more pronounced than the other personality dimensions. Table 3: Distribution of Personality Traits among Retired Elderly Participants (N = 260) Personality Trait Item Used (Short Big Five) Mean SD Level Extraversion Outgoing and sociable 3.12 0.86 Moderate Agreeableness Tends to find fault with others 2.74 0.91 Moderate Conscientiousness Does a thorough job 3.48 0.79 Moderately High Neuroticism Gets nervous easily 3.26 0.88 Moderate Openness to Experience Has an active imagination 3.19 0.84 Moderate Association of Personality Traits with Internet Addiction among Retired Elderly Participants The Association of Personality Traits with Internet Addiction retired elderly participants was examined using correlation analysis. The direction and strength of these associations are presented in Table 4. Extraversion showed a negligible negative correlation with internet addiction which was not statistically significant .This indicated that extraversion was not meaningfully related to internet addiction in the study population. Agreeableness exhibited a weak positive association with internet addiction; however, this relationship did not attain statistical significance indicating that agreeableness was not meaningfully linked to problematic internet use in the study population. In contrast, conscientiousness showed a significant inverse association with internet addiction), suggesting that individuals with higher levels of conscientiousness were less likely to demonstrate addictive internet behaviours. Neuroticism displayed a significant positive correlation with internet addiction, indicating that greater emotional instability was associated with higher levels of problematic internet use. Similarly, openness to experience was positively and significantly related to internet addiction, implying that participants with higher openness scores tended to exhibit increased internet addiction levels. Table 4: Correlation of Personality Dimensions with Internet Addiction in Retired Elderly Individuals Personality Trait r-value p-value Strength & Direction Extraversion −0.04 0.512 No correlation Agreeableness 0.09 0.138 Weak, not significant Conscientiousness −0.21 0.001 Significant, negative Neuroticism 0.29 0.000 Significant, positive Openness to Experience 0.18 0.004 Significant, positive Overall findings indicated that conscientiousness functioned as a protective personality trait against internet addiction, while neuroticism and openness to experience were associated with elevated risk. No significant associations were identified for extraversion or agreeableness within the study population. DISCUSSION The results indicated that a substantial proportion of retired older adults reported problematic or at-risk use of internet use. Internet addiction was more prevalent among the younger segments of the elderly population, particularly those aged 60–70 and 70–80 years, whereas no significant association was observed among individuals above 80 years after adjustment. Marital status showed a significant relationship with internet addiction, with widowed and never-married participants exhibiting higher likelihood compared to married individuals. Educational attainment displayed a clear gradient, as higher education levels including professional, graduate, diploma, and high school were associated with increased odds of internet addiction, while primary and middle school education did not remain significant in the adjusted model. Previous occupation was also significantly associated, with retirees from government service showing lower odds of internet addiction than those from the private sector. Source of income emerged as an important factor, as financially independent participants were more likely to exhibit problematic internet use, whereas dependence on a spouse or family members was associated with reduced odds. Living arrangement further influenced internet addiction, with participants living alone having markedly higher odds compared to those residing with both spouse and family, while other living situations were not significant after adjustment. Gender did not show a significant association. Regarding personality traits, higher levels of conscientiousness were associated with lower internet addiction, whereas neuroticism and openness to experience were significantly associated with higher levels of addiction. Extraversion and agreeableness did not demonstrate significant relationships with internet addiction. In this present study, evidence of internet addiction was observed in 33.9% of retired elderly participants, including 25.8% with problematic internet use and 8.1% who were at risk, while the remaining 66.2% demonstrated normal patterns of internet use. In comparison, Kumaresh et al. reported a lower overall prevalence of 21.7% among elderly individuals aged 60 years and above in Southern Tamil Nadu. In their study, 13.0% of participants were classified as having mild internet addiction, 7.0% had moderate addiction, and 1.7% were identified with severe addiction, whereas 78.3% showed no evidence of internet addiction. Although both studies indicated that the majority of elderly individuals maintained normal internet use, the present study identified a larger proportion with problematic or risky use, which may reflect differences in study population characteristics, particularly the exclusive focus on retirees in the current study[ 13 ]. A comparable prevalence was reported by Sangwan et al., who conducted a community-based study among elderly residents of an urban slum in North India. In their study, 49.5% of participants had no internet addiction, while 36.0% were classified as having mild internet addiction, 9.5% had moderate addiction, and 5.0% had severe addiction. Although the present study reported a slightly higher overall proportion of problematic or at-risk internet use, both studies consistently demonstrated that nearly one-third to one-half of the elderly population exhibited some degree of internet addiction. This similarity across different geographic and socioeconomic settings highlights the growing relevance of problematic internet use among older adults in India.[ 14 ] Similar patterns were reflected in a study by Bharamagoudar et al. which explored smartphone addiction among elderly individuals in Mysore, Karnataka. Their findings showed that nearly two-thirds of the participants (66%) fell into the moderate category of smartphone addiction, with higher levels more frequently seen among men and those who were retired and not engaged in active employment. Although the present study focused on internet addiction rather than smartphone use and employed a different assessment tool, both studies highlighted a common concern—excessive engagement with digital devices among older adults. The convergence of findings suggests that retirement-related circumstances, such as increased leisure time and the absence of structured daily routines, may play an important role in increasing susceptibility to problematic digital use in later life.[ 15 ] The findings of this present study were broadly consistent with those findings reported by Tian et al., who highlighted the role of personality traits in shaping vulnerability to internet addiction. Similar to their observations, neuroticism emerged as a risk factor, while conscientiousness appeared to have a protective role against problematic internet use. However, differences were noted with respect to other traits. While Tian et al. reported negative associations for extraversion, agreeableness, and openness, the present study found openness to be positively associated, with extraversion and agreeableness showing no significant relationship. These variations may reflect differences in study population and context, as Tian et al. focused on younger individuals in an academic setting, whereas the present study examined retired elderly participants in a community setting.[ 16 ] Despite these differences, both studies underscored the importance of stable personality traits in understanding internet addiction. CONCLUSION The present study highlighted that internet addiction was a significant concern among retired elderly individuals in Chennai, with nearly one-third of the participants exhibiting problematic or at-risk patterns of internet use. Although the majority demonstrated normal internet use, the presence of problematic digital behavior among retirees underscored the growing relevance of this issue in later life. The analysis indicated that several sociodemographic characteristics including age, marital status, level of education, prior employment sector, income source and living arrangements were linked to internet addiction, whereas gender did not emerge as a contributing factor. These results suggest that the social environment, adjustments associated with retirement, and household living conditions may substantially influence patterns of internet use among older adults. In addition, the findings highlighted a meaningful association between personality attributes and internet addiction. Elevated levels of neuroticism and openness to experience were associated with increased susceptibility to problematic internet use, while higher conscientiousness appeared to reduce this risk, indicating a potential protective role. No significant associations were observed for extraversion or agreeableness. Together, these observations underscore the influence of enduring personality traits on vulnerability to internet addiction, even during later stages of life. Overall, the study reinforced the need to view internet addiction among the elderly as a multifactorial issue influenced by sociodemographic, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Early identification of retirees at risk, along with targeted awareness and counseling interventions, may help promote healthy and balanced digital engagement and support psychological well-being among older adults in an increasingly digital society. Declarations FUNDING STATEMENT: No funding was received for conducting this study. CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE: Informed written consent was obtained from all participants prior to their inclusion in the study. CONSENT TO PUBLISH: Informed consent was obtained from all participants, and the authors consent to the publication of this manuscript. AUTHOR CONTRIBUTION STATEMENT: 1. Bhuvanesh Aravindh [B.B.A]: Conceptualized and designed the study, conducted data collection, performed statistical analysis, and drafted the manuscript. 2. Swetha N.B [S.N.B]: Supervised the data collection and critically reviewed the manuscript. 3. Sujitha P [S.P]: Provided methodological guidance and critically revised the manuscript. 4. Abhilasha Munisingh [A.M]: Assisted in pilot testing and data collection. 5. Meena Priya [M.P]: Assisted in data analysis. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable Data Availability The datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to ethical considerations and the sensitive nature of the information collected from a marginalised tribal community. However, the data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, subject to appropriate ethical approval and institutional permissions. References Rochat L, Wilkosc-Debczynska M, Zajac-Lamparska L, et al. Internet use and problematic use in seniors: A comparative study in Switzerland and Poland. Front Psychiatry . 2021;12:609190.doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.609190 M’hiri K, Costanza A, Khazaal Y, Khan R, Zullino D, Achab S.Problematic Internet use in older adults: A critical review of the literature. J Addict Res Ther . 2015;6(4):253.doi: 10.4172/2155-6105.1000253 Li P, Zhang C, Gao S, et al.Association between daily internet use and incidence of chronic diseases among older adults: A prospective cohort study. J Med Internet Res . 2023;25:e46298.doi: 10.2196/46298 Demir OB, Bilgin A, Yilmaz FT.Smartphone addiction among elderly individuals: Its relationship with physical activity, activities of daily living, and balance levels. BMC Public Health . 2025;25:965.doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-22145-0 Tadpatrikar A, Sharma MK, Amudhan S, Desai G.The prevalence and correlates of internet addiction in India as assessed by Young’s Internet Addiction Test: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Indian J Psychol Med . 2024;46(6):511–520. doi: 10.1177/02537176241232110 Sangwan G, Sharma N, Garg R.A community-based study to estimate internet usage and associated factors among elderly residing in an urban slum area in North India. GJMEDPH . 2024;13(6). Cárdenas Garza SA, Janssen Aguilar R, Ruíz Chow ÁA.Problematic internet use and personality traits: Results in working-age adults. Rev Colomb Psiquiatr . 2024;53(2):142–148. doi: 10.1016/j.rcp.2022.03.002 Hidalgo-Fuentes S, Fernández-Castilla B.Problematic internet use and the Big Five personality model: An updated three-level meta-analysis. Behav Inf Technol . 2023. doi: 10.1080/0144929X.2023.2283201 Smirni D, Smirni P, Lavanco G, Caci B.Premorbid personality traits as risk factors for behavioral addictions: A systematic review of a vulnerability hypothesis. Children . 2023;10:467. doi: 10.3390/children10030467 Koronczai B, Kökönyei G, Griffiths MD, Demetrovics Z, et al.The relationship between personality traits, psychopathological symptoms, and problematic internet use: A complex mediation model. J Med Internet Res . 2019;21(4):e11837. doi: 10.2196/11837 Ksiksou J, Maskour L, Alaoui S.The relationship between internet addiction and personality traits in Moroccan nursing students. Acta Neuropsychologica . 2023;21(2):177–189.doi: 10.5604/01.3001.0053.6936 Jojo CE, Sundaramoorthy J.Personality traits associated with internet addiction among college students in South India. Cogent Education . 2022;9:2142455. doi: 10.1080/2331186X.2022.2142455 Kumaresh A, Chamelee A, Rathi M, Sushma Vishwanathan, Sabari Sridhar OT, Sushmaa Janardhan, Gayathri Thiruvengadam.Prevalence of internet addiction and its associated factors among elderly population in Southern Tamil Nadu: A cross-sectional study. Asian Journal of Biological Sciences . 2024;6(Special Issue 3):1899–1906.doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.Si3.2024.1899-1906 Sangwan G, Sharma N, Garg R, et al . Internet usage pattern and associated factors among elderly residing in an urban slum of North India: A community-based cross-sectional study. Global Journal of Medical and Public Health . 2024;13(6):1–7. Bharamagoudar, R. & Komala, M. (2025). Relationship of Smartphone Addiction with Lifestyle among Elderly. International Journal of Indian Psychology, 13(2), 171-180. DIP:18.01.015.20251302, DOI:10.25215/1302.015 Tian Y, Zhao Y, Lv F, Qin N and Chen P (2021) Associations Among the Big Five Personality Traits, Maladaptive Cognitions, and Internet Addiction Across Three Time Measurements in 3 Months During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front. Psychol. 12:654825. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.654825 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Editorial decision: Revision requested 03 Mar, 2026 Reviews received at journal 01 Mar, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 01 Mar, 2026 Reviews received at journal 23 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 23 Feb, 2026 Reviews received at journal 22 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 22 Feb, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 21 Feb, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 28 Jan, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 28 Jan, 2026 Editor invited by journal 17 Jan, 2026 Submission checks completed at journal 17 Jan, 2026 First submitted to journal 17 Jan, 2026 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8523031","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":587601925,"identity":"4e77e847-ac5d-4adb-9896-5dc1ea2af1e7","order_by":0,"name":"Bhuvanesh Aravindh","email":"data:image/png;base64,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","orcid":"","institution":"Sree Balaji Medical college and Hospital","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Bhuvanesh","middleName":"","lastName":"Aravindh","suffix":""},{"id":587601926,"identity":"3fba9093-3803-49e5-bef8-bc6c595aa516","order_by":1,"name":"Swetha NB","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sree Balaji Medical college and Hospital","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Swetha","middleName":"","lastName":"NB","suffix":""},{"id":587601927,"identity":"269bfb98-ac4a-438a-ac01-3ac967fbd222","order_by":2,"name":"Sujitha P","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sree Balaji Medical college and Hospital","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Sujitha","middleName":"","lastName":"P","suffix":""},{"id":587601928,"identity":"f351e72c-dc63-4883-b543-80ceb3ce0673","order_by":3,"name":"Abhilasha Munisingh","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Srm Medical College and Research centre","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Abhilasha","middleName":"","lastName":"Munisingh","suffix":""},{"id":587601929,"identity":"b67975ec-9fc5-4b0e-9098-72e56ac98d7f","order_by":4,"name":"Meena Priya","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Sree Balaji Medical college and Hospital","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Meena","middleName":"","lastName":"Priya","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-01-05 15:39:08","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":102326302,"identity":"ffbe30d2-2424-4086-b7b1-97c3698d4914","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-02-10 14:34:11","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":35770,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePattern of Internet Use among Retired Elderly Participants (N = 260)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"FIGURE1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8523031/v1/0d4f0f7c34406104e833e589.jpg"},{"id":102397319,"identity":"62a9d994-86de-47c1-8ef3-66264b071749","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-02-11 10:15:30","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1395551,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8523031/v1/6158c818-68fe-424a-b30a-ced9c36dba75.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"A Cross Sectional Study to assess the Prevalence of Internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits in Retirees in Chennai, TamilNadu","fulltext":[{"header":"INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe use of the internet has become deeply embedded in daily activities in countries across the globe. Although its use was once largely limited to younger people, older adults are now increasingly engaging with digital technologies. Among retired adults, internet use often serves multiple purposes, including communication with family and peers, information seeking, financial management, entertainment, and assistance with routine activities. This shift reflects improved access to technology and the growing role of digital tools in supporting independence and social participation in later life.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]Retirement is a major transition in the life course and may influence how individuals use the internet. Changes such as loss of structured daily routines, reduced social interaction, increased free time, bereavement, and declining physical health can affect coping mechanisms in later life. In this context, the internet may become an important source of companionship, emotional support, or distraction, shaping patterns of use among retirees[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e].Despite increasing awareness, research focusing specifically on older adults remains limited. Reviews of existing literature indicate that retirees are rarely examined as a distinct group, leading to gaps in understanding internet addiction in later life[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e].At the same time, research highlights that internet use among older adults exists along a spectrum. Digital engagement may be beneficial in some contexts while becoming problematic in others, depending on individual vulnerability and circumstances[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].Concerns related to smartphone use in older adults have further expanded the discussion on digital behaviours in later life, emphasizing the need to look beyond traditional internet access alone[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn India, rapid digital expansion has led to increased internet access across all age groups. National-level evidence identifies internet addiction as an emerging public health concern within the country\u003cb\u003e[5]\u003c/b\u003e.Community-based research has shown that problematic internet use is also present among elderly populations, including those living in socioeconomically disadvantaged settings[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e].Apart from sociodemographic determinants, psychological factors contribute significantly to an individual\u0026rsquo;s likelihood of developing problematic internet use. Evidence from adult studies suggests that long-standing personality traits play a key role in determining patterns of engagement with digital platforms[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e].Aggregated findings from multiple studies demonstrate that problematic internet use is systematically associated with Big Five personality traits, highlighting the value of personality-based explanatory approaches\u003cb\u003e[8]\u003c/b\u003e.The vulnerability hypothesis conceptualizes internet addiction as an expression of underlying emotional and personality predispositions rather than excessive use alone\u003cb\u003e[9]\u003c/b\u003e.Theoretical models have also highlighted the role of psychological distress in linking personality traits to problematic internet use, suggesting that mental health factors are an important part of this relationship\u003cb\u003e[10]\u003c/b\u003e.Evidence from different cultural settings supports the relevance of personality traits in understanding problematic internet use across populations as in an Moroccan population study done by ksikau et al[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e].Similar associations have been reported in Indian populations, indicating that personality-based explanations are applicable within the local context\u003cb\u003e[12].\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGiven these gaps, there is a clear need for focused epidemiological research examining internet addiction among retirees in India. Chennai, a rapidly urbanizing city with high digital penetration and a growing retired population, allows for an examination of internet addiction levels and their relationship with personality traits within a defined population. Retirees remain an underexplored group in internet addiction research, particularly in India. Assessing prevalence and examining its relationship with personality traits can help identify vulnerable individuals and inform strategies to promote healthy and balanced digital use in later life.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"METHODOLOGY","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eStudy Design\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThis study was a community based cross sectional study done to assess the prevalence of internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits among retired elderly individuals.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStudy Setting and Study Population\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was conducted among retired elderly persons residing in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Individuals who had retired from active employment and were residing in Chennai, were considered eligible for participation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStudy Period\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData collection and assessment were conducted across a twelve-month period between November 2024 and November 2025.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSample Size\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA previously published study from Southern Tamil Nadu by Kumaresh A et al.[\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e], documenting a 21.7% occurrence of internet addiction among the elderly, served as the basis for estimating the study sample size. The calculation was performed using a conventional prevalence estimation approach.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Equa\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equa\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https://myfiles.space/user_files/58895_8739fc6c57c1c19a/58895_custom_files/img1770729590.png\" width=\"388\" height=\"354\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe calculated sample size was rounded off to 260 participants.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSampling Method\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was conducted in the urban field practice area of the Urban Health Centre attached to Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.A purposive sampling technique was adopted. Retirees residing in the field practice area and attending the Urban Health Centre or contacted during community visits were approached.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eInclusion Criteria\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRetired persons who were living in Chennai, Tamil Nadu at the time of the study\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExclusion Criteria\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eElderly individuals who were not retired\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThose with significant mental health disorders or advanced cognitive impairment affecting comprehension or reliable response\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndividuals experiencing serious illness at the time of assessment\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePersons unwilling to provide consent or participate in the study\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eData Collection\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing the provision of detailed information about the study, written consent was obtained from each participant prior to participation. Information was gathered through direct, in-person interviews using pre-designed structured questionnaires. Before initiating the interview, participants were briefed on the objectives and relevance of the study. Measures were taken to ensure privacy during interviews, and confidentiality of the information provided was strictly maintained at all stages.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eStudy Instruments\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eCompulsive Internet Use Scale \u0026ndash; 7 Item Version (CIUS-7)\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe CIUS-7 instrument was administered to identify and quantify problematic patterns of internet use. The scale comprises seven statements rated on a five-point Likert response format. Higher total scores reflect a greater likelihood and intensity of problematic or addictive internet use.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eBig Five Inventory \u0026ndash; 10 Item Version (BFI-10)\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePersonality characteristics were evaluated using the BFI-10 scale, which captures five broad personality dimensions: extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eData Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAll collected responses were coded and entered into Microsoft Excel, followed by statistical processing using SPSS software version 22. Descriptive measures were generated to summarize participant characteristics and key study variables. Inferential statistical methods were applied to examine associations between internet addiction and personality traits. Statistical significance was determined using a threshold of p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eEthics approval and Accordance:\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrior approval to conduct the study was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee of Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital \u003cstrong\u003e(Approval No. 002/SBMCH/IHEC/2024/2331).\u003c/strong\u003e The study was carried out in accordance with the ethical principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Participation was entirely voluntary, and written informed consent was obtained from all respondents prior to participation. Participant anonymity was strictly maintained, and all data were handled confidentially throughout the study period.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eData Availability Statement:\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to ethical considerations and the sensitive nature of the information collected from a marginalised tribal community. However, the data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, subject to appropriate ethical approval and institutional permissions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003eBudget and Funding\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe research was undertaken without financial support from external organizations. All expenses related to the study were met by the investigators themselves.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSociodemographic Profile of the Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs presented in \u003cstrong\u003eTable 1\u003c/strong\u003e, a total of 260 retired older adults participated in the study. The largest share of respondents belonged to the 60\u0026ndash;70 year age group indicating that most participants were in the early phase of older adulthood. A majority of the participants were married reflecting continued spousal support in later life.In terms of education, primary schooling emerged as the most common level attained suggesting generally modest educational backgrounds. Before retirement, most participants had been engaged in private-sector employment.Living with both spouse and family members was the most frequently reported living arrangement ,highlighting the prevalence of family-based living among retirees. Financial independence was reported by most participants, indicating a reasonable level of economic self-sufficiency.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegarding internet use, normal patterns of use were predominant, observed in 66.2% of the participants, although a notable minority exhibited signs of problematic or compulsive internet use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;Table 1: Sociodemographic Characteristics and Internet Use Pattern among Retired Elderly Participants (N = 260)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCategory\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFrequency(n)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePercentage(%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAge\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;80\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70-80\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e109\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60-70\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e122\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;60\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGender\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e122\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e138\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarital Status\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e155\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWidowed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNever Married\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEducation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProfessional\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGraduate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIntermediate/Diploma\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh School\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMiddle School\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrimary School\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e72\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIlliterate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrevious Occupation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGovt Job\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e102\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrivate Job\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e158\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLiving Situation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLiving With Spouse And Family\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLiving With Spouse\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLiving With Family Without Spouse\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLiving Alone\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIncome Source\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndependent\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e157\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDependent On Spouse\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDependent On Family\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e72\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInternet addiction\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNormal Use\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e172\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e66.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProblematic/Compulsive Use\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e67\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 145px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt Risk\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 140px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 142px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigure 1 shows the pattern of internet use among the retired elderly participants included in the study. Among the 260 participants, the majority, 172 individuals reported normal use of the internet.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, a sizeable proportion of the retirees demonstrated concerns related to internet use. 67 participants were identified as having problematic or compulsive internet use, while 21 participants were categorized as being at risk of developing internet addiction.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, the figure highlights that although normal internet use was most common among retirees, a considerable number exhibited varying levels of problematic or risky internet use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnivariate analysis as in Table.2 showed that internet addiction among retired older adults was not randomly distributed but was closely linked to several sociodemographic characteristics. Age emerged as a relevant factor, with problematic patterns of internet use being more evident among the younger segments of the elderly population. Marital status also influenced internet use behavior, as individuals without spousal support, particularly those who were widowed or never married demonstrated a greater tendency toward problematic or excessive internet use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEducational level displayed a strong relationship with internet addiction, suggesting that greater educational exposure may facilitate increased access to and engagement with digital technologies, thereby elevating the risk of excessive use. Previous occupational background was another important determinant, with retirees from the private sector showing higher levels of problematic internet use than those who had worked in government services. Financial status further contributed to this pattern, as economically independent retirees were more likely to engage in excessive internet use, possibly due to greater access to digital resources. Living arrangement was also significantly associated, with individuals living alone exhibiting higher vulnerability to problematic internet use compared to those residing with family members. In contrast, gender did not demonstrate a meaningful association with internet addiction in the univariate analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVariables that demonstrated statistical significance in the univariate analysis were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to identify factors independently associated with internet addiction. After adjustment, age remained an independent predictor of internet addiction. People aged 70\u0026ndash;80 years and 60\u0026ndash;70 years also showed elevated odds, and were statistically significant while participants aged above 80 years did not show a significant association after adjustment. Marital status retained a significant independent association in both categories. Educational status showed a strong and graded independent relationship with internet addiction. Compared to illiterate participants, significantly higher odds were observed among those with professional education, graduate education , intermediate or diploma education and high school education. Primary and middle school education did not retain statistical significance in the adjusted model. Previous occupation remained independently associated with internet addiction. Participants who had been employed in government services prior to retirement had lower odds of internet addiction compared to those from the private sector. Source of income continued to be a significant predictor after multivariable adjustment. Compared to financially independent retirees, those dependent on family members and those dependent on their spouse demonstrated significantly lower odds of internet addiction. Participants living alone had nearly twice the odds of internet addiction compared to those living with spouse and family members and was statistically significant after adjustment while Other living arrangements did not show significant associations after adjustment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2: Association of Sociodemographic Factors with Internet Addiction among Retired Elderly Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"699\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"3\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInternet Addiction\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eX\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 143px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUnivariate Analysis\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" style=\"width: 183px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMultivariate Analysis\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNORMAL USE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePROBLEMATIC\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e/COMPULSUVE USE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAT RISK\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCrude OR(95%CI)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ep-value\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdjusted Odds ratio\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ep-value\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAge\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.34\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.002\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;80\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.13(0.002 \u0026ndash; 7.77)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.19(0.90-1.68)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.213\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70-80\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.20(0.16 \u0026ndash; 64.1)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.87(1.22-2.86)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.004\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60-70\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.57(0.28 \u0026ndash; 110.3)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.42(1.05-1.93)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.021\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;60\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGender\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.234\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFEMALE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.75\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.80(0.48 \u0026ndash; 1.34)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMALE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital Status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.82\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.017\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWIDOWED\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e76\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.45(0.26 \u0026ndash; 0.79)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.76(1.18 \u0026ndash; 2.63)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.006\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNEVER MARRIED\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.13(0.007 \u0026ndash; 2.41)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.69(1.12 \u0026ndash; 2.54)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.011\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMARRIED\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e51\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"8\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePROFESSIONAL\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.63(0.79 \u0026ndash; 143.4)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.47(1.46 \u0026ndash; 3.14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGRADUATE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.43(1.80 \u0026ndash; 22.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.14(1.63 \u0026ndash; 3.75)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eINTERMEDIATE/DIPLOMA\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.71(1.31 \u0026ndash; 16.9)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.89(1.29 \u0026ndash; 2.78)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHIGH SCHOOL\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.63(1.57 \u0026ndash; 20.2)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.62(1.12 \u0026ndash; 2.34)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.010\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMIDDLE SCHOOL\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.22(0.36 \u0026ndash; 4.16)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.38(0.96 \u0026ndash; 1.99)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.081\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePRIMARY SCHOOL\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.55(0.47 \u0026ndash; 5.14)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.21(0.82 \u0026ndash; 1.78)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.327\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eILLITERATE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevious Occupation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.66\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGOVT JOB\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.26(0.15 \u0026ndash; 0.45)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.68(0.49-0.94)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.021\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePRIVATE JOB\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e123\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIncome Source\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDEPENDENT ON FAMILY\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e62\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.21(0.10 \u0026ndash; 0.43)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.48(0.34-0.67)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDEPENDENT ON SPOUSE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.52(0.23 \u0026ndash; 1.20)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.64(0.42-0.97)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.036\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eINDEPENDENT\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiving Situation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"5\" style=\"width: 61px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLIVING ALONE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.57(0.24 \u0026ndash; 1.35)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.93(1.38 \u0026ndash; 2.71)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLIVING WITH FAMILY WITHOUT SPOUSE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e59\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.37(0.17 \u0026ndash; 0.78)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,27(0.92 \u0026ndash; 1.75)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.148\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLIVING WITH SPOUSE\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.21(0.58 \u0026ndash; 2.52)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.18(0.86 \u0026ndash; 1.62)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.304\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 80px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLIVING WITH SPOUSE AND FAMILY\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 62px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 94px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 82px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRef\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd style=\"width: 73px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e__\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePersonality Trait Profile of Retired Elderly Participants\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePersonality traits of the retired elderly participants, assessed using the short version of the Big Five Inventory, indicated a generally balanced personality profile across domains. As summarized in Table 3, most traits were observed at moderate levels, suggesting the absence of extreme personality tendencies within the study population. Participants demonstrated an average level of extraversion, reflecting a balanced orientation toward social interaction without strong inclinations toward either social withdrawal or high sociability. Agreeableness was also observed at a moderate level, indicating a fair degree of interpersonal tolerance and cooperativeness.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConscientiousness stood out as relatively more prominent compared to the other traits, suggesting that characteristics such as carefulness, responsibility, and task-oriented behavior were more commonly expressed among the participants. Neuroticism levels reflected moderate emotional responsiveness, indicating that while participants may experience stress or emotional fluctuations, these were not excessive. Openness to experience was likewise moderate, suggesting an average tendency toward curiosity, imagination, and receptiveness to new experiences. Overall, the findings indicate that the retired elderly participants exhibited largely stable and adaptive personality traits, with conscientiousness being comparatively more pronounced than the other personality dimensions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3: Distribution of Personality Traits among Retired Elderly Participants (N = 260)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePersonality Trait\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Used (Short Big Five)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMean\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSD\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLevel\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExtraversion\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOutgoing and sociable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.86\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModerate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgreeableness\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTends to find fault with others\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModerate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDoes a thorough job\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.48\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.79\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModerately High\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGets nervous easily\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.88\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModerate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOpenness to Experience\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHas an active imagination\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModerate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssociation of Personality Traits with Internet Addiction among Retired Elderly Participants\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Association of Personality Traits with Internet Addiction retired elderly participants was examined using correlation analysis. The direction and strength of these associations are presented in Table 4.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtraversion showed a negligible negative correlation with internet addiction which was not statistically significant .This indicated that extraversion was not meaningfully related to internet addiction in the study population. Agreeableness exhibited a weak positive association with internet addiction; however, this relationship did not attain statistical significance indicating that agreeableness was not meaningfully linked to problematic internet use in the study population. In contrast, conscientiousness showed a significant inverse association with internet addiction), suggesting that individuals with higher levels of conscientiousness were less likely to demonstrate addictive internet behaviours. Neuroticism displayed a significant positive correlation with internet addiction, indicating that greater emotional instability was associated with higher levels of problematic internet use. Similarly, openness to experience was positively and significantly related to internet addiction, implying that participants with higher openness scores tended to exhibit increased internet addiction levels.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4: Correlation of Personality Dimensions with Internet Addiction in Retired Elderly Individuals\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePersonality Trait\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003er-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStrength \u0026amp; Direction\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExtraversion\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026minus;0.04\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.512\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo correlation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgreeableness\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.09\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.138\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWeak, not significant\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026minus;0.21\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignificant, negative\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.29\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.000\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignificant, positive\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOpenness to Experience\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.18\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.004\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignificant, positive\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall findings indicated that conscientiousness functioned as a protective personality trait against internet addiction, while neuroticism and openness to experience were associated with elevated risk. No significant associations were identified for extraversion or agreeableness within the study population.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe results indicated that a substantial proportion of retired older adults reported problematic or at-risk use of internet use. Internet addiction was more prevalent among the younger segments of the elderly population, particularly those aged 60\u0026ndash;70 and 70\u0026ndash;80 years, whereas no significant association was observed among individuals above 80 years after adjustment. Marital status showed a significant relationship with internet addiction, with widowed and never-married participants exhibiting higher likelihood compared to married individuals. Educational attainment displayed a clear gradient, as higher education levels including professional, graduate, diploma, and high school were associated with increased odds of internet addiction, while primary and middle school education did not remain significant in the adjusted model. Previous occupation was also significantly associated, with retirees from government service showing lower odds of internet addiction than those from the private sector. Source of income emerged as an important factor, as financially independent participants were more likely to exhibit problematic internet use, whereas dependence on a spouse or family members was associated with reduced odds. Living arrangement further influenced internet addiction, with participants living alone having markedly higher odds compared to those residing with both spouse and family, while other living situations were not significant after adjustment. Gender did not show a significant association. Regarding personality traits, higher levels of conscientiousness were associated with lower internet addiction, whereas neuroticism and openness to experience were significantly associated with higher levels of addiction. Extraversion and agreeableness did not demonstrate significant relationships with internet addiction.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn this present study, evidence of internet addiction was observed in 33.9% of retired elderly participants, including 25.8% with problematic internet use and 8.1% who were at risk, while the remaining 66.2% demonstrated normal patterns of internet use. In comparison, Kumaresh et al. reported a lower overall prevalence of 21.7% among elderly individuals aged 60 years and above in Southern Tamil Nadu. In their study, 13.0% of participants were classified as having mild internet addiction, 7.0% had moderate addiction, and 1.7% were identified with severe addiction, whereas 78.3% showed no evidence of internet addiction. Although both studies indicated that the majority of elderly individuals maintained normal internet use, the present study identified a larger proportion with problematic or risky use, which may reflect differences in study population characteristics, particularly the exclusive focus on retirees in the current study[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA comparable prevalence was reported by Sangwan et al., who conducted a community-based study among elderly residents of an urban slum in North India. In their study, 49.5% of participants had no internet addiction, while 36.0% were classified as having mild internet addiction, 9.5% had moderate addiction, and 5.0% had severe addiction. Although the present study reported a slightly higher overall proportion of problematic or at-risk internet use, both studies consistently demonstrated that nearly one-third to one-half of the elderly population exhibited some degree of internet addiction. This similarity across different geographic and socioeconomic settings highlights the growing relevance of problematic internet use among older adults in India.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSimilar patterns were reflected in a study by Bharamagoudar et al. which explored smartphone addiction among elderly individuals in Mysore, Karnataka. Their findings showed that nearly two-thirds of the participants (66%) fell into the moderate category of smartphone addiction, with higher levels more frequently seen among men and those who were retired and not engaged in active employment. Although the present study focused on internet addiction rather than smartphone use and employed a different assessment tool, both studies highlighted a common concern\u0026mdash;excessive engagement with digital devices among older adults. The convergence of findings suggests that retirement-related circumstances, such as increased leisure time and the absence of structured daily routines, may play an important role in increasing susceptibility to problematic digital use in later life.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this present study were broadly consistent with those findings reported by Tian et al., who highlighted the role of personality traits in shaping vulnerability to internet addiction. Similar to their observations, neuroticism emerged as a risk factor, while conscientiousness appeared to have a protective role against problematic internet use. However, differences were noted with respect to other traits. While Tian et al. reported negative associations for extraversion, agreeableness, and openness, the present study found openness to be positively associated, with extraversion and agreeableness showing no significant relationship. These variations may reflect differences in study population and context, as Tian et al. focused on younger individuals in an academic setting, whereas the present study examined retired elderly participants in a community setting.[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e] Despite these differences, both studies underscored the importance of stable personality traits in understanding internet addiction.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe present study highlighted that internet addiction was a significant concern among retired elderly individuals in Chennai, with nearly one-third of the participants exhibiting problematic or at-risk patterns of internet use. Although the majority demonstrated normal internet use, the presence of problematic digital behavior among retirees underscored the growing relevance of this issue in later life.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe analysis indicated that several sociodemographic characteristics including age, marital status, level of education, prior employment sector, income source and living arrangements were linked to internet addiction, whereas gender did not emerge as a contributing factor. These results suggest that the social environment, adjustments associated with retirement, and household living conditions may substantially influence patterns of internet use among older adults.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn addition, the findings highlighted a meaningful association between personality attributes and internet addiction. Elevated levels of neuroticism and openness to experience were associated with increased susceptibility to problematic internet use, while higher conscientiousness appeared to reduce this risk, indicating a potential protective role. No significant associations were observed for extraversion or agreeableness. Together, these observations underscore the influence of enduring personality traits on vulnerability to internet addiction, even during later stages of life.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverall, the study reinforced the need to view internet addiction among the elderly as a multifactorial issue influenced by sociodemographic, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Early identification of retirees at risk, along with targeted awareness and counseling interventions, may help promote healthy and balanced digital engagement and support psychological well-being among older adults in an increasingly digital society.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFUNDING STATEMENT:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eNo funding was received for conducting this study.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCONSENT TO PARTICIPATE:\u003c/strong\u003e Informed written consent was obtained from all participants prior to their inclusion in the study.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCONSENT TO PUBLISH:\u003c/strong\u003e Informed consent was obtained from all participants, and the authors consent to the publication of this manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAUTHOR CONTRIBUTION STATEMENT:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Bhuvanesh Aravindh [B.B.A]:\u003c/strong\u003e Conceptualized and designed the study, conducted data collection, performed statistical analysis, and drafted the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;Swetha N.B [S.N.B]:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e Supervised the data collection and critically reviewed the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. \u003cstrong\u003eSujitha P [S.P]:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e Provided methodological guidance and critically revised the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. \u003cstrong\u003eAbhilasha Munisingh [A.M]:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e Assisted in pilot testing and data collection.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5. Meena Priya [M.P]:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eAssisted in data analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eNot applicable\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Availability\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to ethical considerations and the sensitive nature of the information collected from a marginalised tribal community. However, the data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request, subject to appropriate ethical approval and institutional permissions.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRochat L, Wilkosc-Debczynska M, Zajac-Lamparska L, et al. Internet use and problematic use in seniors: A comparative study in Switzerland and Poland. \u003cem\u003eFront Psychiatry\u003c/em\u003e. 2021;12:609190.doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.609190\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eM\u0026rsquo;hiri K, Costanza A, Khazaal Y, Khan R, Zullino D, Achab S.Problematic Internet use in older adults: A critical review of the literature. \u003cem\u003eJ Addict Res Ther\u003c/em\u003e. 2015;6(4):253.doi: 10.4172/2155-6105.1000253\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eLi P, Zhang C, Gao S, et al.Association between daily internet use and incidence of chronic diseases among older adults: A prospective cohort study. \u003cem\u003eJ Med Internet Res\u003c/em\u003e. 2023;25:e46298.doi: 10.2196/46298\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eDemir OB, Bilgin A, Yilmaz FT.Smartphone addiction among elderly individuals: Its relationship with physical activity, activities of daily living, and balance levels. \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health\u003c/em\u003e. 2025;25:965.doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-22145-0\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTadpatrikar A, Sharma MK, Amudhan S, Desai G.The prevalence and correlates of internet addiction in India as assessed by Young\u0026rsquo;s Internet Addiction Test: A systematic review and meta-analysis.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eIndian J Psychol Med\u003c/em\u003e. 2024;46(6):511\u0026ndash;520.\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;doi: 10.1177/02537176241232110\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSangwan G, Sharma N, Garg R.A community-based study to estimate internet usage and associated factors among elderly residing in an urban slum area in North India. \u003cem\u003eGJMEDPH\u003c/em\u003e. 2024;13(6).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eC\u0026aacute;rdenas Garza SA, Janssen Aguilar R, Ru\u0026iacute;z Chow \u0026Aacute;A.Problematic internet use and personality traits: Results in working-age adults. \u003cem\u003eRev Colomb Psiquiatr\u003c/em\u003e. 2024;53(2):142\u0026ndash;148. doi: 10.1016/j.rcp.2022.03.002\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHidalgo-Fuentes S, Fern\u0026aacute;ndez-Castilla B.Problematic internet use and the Big Five personality model: An updated three-level meta-analysis.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eBehav Inf Technol\u003c/em\u003e. 2023.\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;doi: 10.1080/0144929X.2023.2283201\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSmirni D, Smirni P, Lavanco G, Caci B.Premorbid personality traits as risk factors for behavioral addictions: A systematic review of a vulnerability hypothesis.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eChildren\u003c/em\u003e. 2023;10:467.\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;doi: 10.3390/children10030467\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eKoronczai B, K\u0026ouml;k\u0026ouml;nyei G, Griffiths MD, Demetrovics Z, et al.The relationship between personality traits, psychopathological symptoms, and problematic internet use: A complex mediation model.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eJ Med Internet Res\u003c/em\u003e. 2019;21(4):e11837.\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;doi: 10.2196/11837\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eKsiksou J, Maskour L, Alaoui S.The relationship between internet addiction and personality traits in Moroccan nursing students. \u003cem\u003eActa Neuropsychologica\u003c/em\u003e. 2023;21(2):177\u0026ndash;189.doi: 10.5604/01.3001.0053.6936\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eJojo CE, Sundaramoorthy J.Personality traits associated with internet addiction among college students in South India.\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eCogent Education\u003c/em\u003e. 2022;9:2142455.\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;doi: 10.1080/2331186X.2022.2142455\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eKumaresh A, Chamelee A, Rathi M, Sushma Vishwanathan, Sabari Sridhar OT, Sushmaa Janardhan, Gayathri Thiruvengadam.Prevalence of internet addiction and its associated factors among elderly population in Southern Tamil Nadu: A cross-sectional study. \u003cem\u003eAsian Journal of Biological Sciences\u003c/em\u003e. 2024;6(Special Issue 3):1899\u0026ndash;1906.doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.Si3.2024.1899-1906\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSangwan G, Sharma N, Garg R, \u003cem\u003eet al\u003c/em\u003e. Internet usage pattern and associated factors among elderly residing in an urban slum of North India: A community-based cross-sectional study. \u003cem\u003eGlobal Journal of Medical and Public Health\u003c/em\u003e. 2024;13(6):1\u0026ndash;7.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eBharamagoudar, R. \u0026amp; Komala, M. (2025). Relationship of Smartphone Addiction with Lifestyle among Elderly. International Journal of Indian Psychology, 13(2), 171-180. DIP:18.01.015.20251302, DOI:10.25215/1302.015\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTian Y, Zhao Y, Lv F, Qin N and Chen P (2021) Associations Among the Big Five Personality Traits, Maladaptive Cognitions, and Internet Addiction Across Three Time Measurements in 3 Months During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front. Psychol. 12:654825. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.654825\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Public Health](https://link.springer.com/journal/12982)","snPcode":"12982","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/12982/3","title":"Discover Public Health","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Internet addiction, Retired elderly, Personality traits, Digital behavior, Problematic internet use, Older adults, India","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInternet use has become increasingly common among older adults, including retirees. While digital engagement offers several benefits, excessive or poorly regulated use may lead to internet addiction, an issue that remains underexplored among the elderly, particularly in the Indian context.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eObjectives:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis investigation seeks to determine the extent of internet addiction among retired elderly individuals and to analyze how different personality traits are related to internet use behavior in retired elderly in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods :\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAn cross sectional study was carried out among 260 retired senior citizens residing in the urban field practice area of Sree Balaji medical college between November 2024 and November 2025. The study sample was assembled through purposive recruitment. Internet-related behavioral dependence was measured using the CIUS-7 instrument, and personality attributes were captured using the BFI-10 scale. Data handling and statistical evaluation were undertaken with SPSS version 22, employing summary statistics alongside analytical methods such as regression modeling and correlation testing.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults :\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIn the study population, problematic patterns of internet use were identified in 33.9% of participants. Of these, 25.8% exhibited problematic internet use, while an additional 8.1% were classified as being at risk. Normal internet use behaviour was observed in 66.2% of the respondents. Significant associations with internet addiction were noted for variables such as age, marital status, level of education, prior occupation, income source and living arrangement. In contrast, no significant relationship was found with gender. Analysis of personality traits revealed that higher levels of neuroticism and openness to experience were linked with greater likelihood of internet addiction, whereas conscientiousness showed an inverse relationship. Extraversion and agreeableness were not found to have a statistically meaningful association with problematic internet use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusion:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nInternet addiction was identified as a relevant concern among retired elderly individuals and was influenced by both sociodemographic factors and personality traits. Early identification of retirees at risk and promotion of balanced internet use may help support mental well-being and healthy digital engagement in later life.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"A Cross Sectional Study to assess the Prevalence of Internet addiction and its relationship with personality traits in Retirees in Chennai, TamilNadu","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-02-10 14:34:02","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8523031/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-03-03T10:01:21+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-03-02T02:23:30+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"145657322733346505226024901432987660602","date":"2026-03-02T01:06:38+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-24T03:23:57+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"267227094292794500531914165893676252657","date":"2026-02-23T08:48:05+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-23T03:57:46+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"106291263318809912171666317493725353664","date":"2026-02-23T03:46:36+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"323979790402442634309695015012314223575","date":"2026-02-22T02:23:05+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-01-29T03:31:49+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-01-29T03:04:13+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2026-01-17T14:38:56+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-01-17T14:34:59+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Public Health","date":"2026-01-17T14:28:39+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Public Health](https://link.springer.com/journal/12982)","snPcode":"12982","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/12982/3","title":"Discover Public Health","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"0dde24c4-d51c-40d8-8402-0ea08b78677b","owner":[],"postedDate":"February 10th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-05-08T10:24:05+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-02-10 14:34:02","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8523031","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8523031","identity":"rs-8523031","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}