Purpose:  This study aims to identify variations in health information-seeking behaviors between older adults and Generation Z (aged 18-26 years). We assess the differences in health empowerment and digital health literacy between the two age groups and examine the use of various information sources that may influence health empowerment and digital health literacy in both cohorts.

Methods: The Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) was adopted for further analysis in 2022. A total of 1,862 valid responses were analyzed from 3,389 Chinese respondents. Descriptive analysis, T-tests, and multiple linear regression were applied to the data.

Results: Generation Z, comprising 995 respondents (53.44%), demonstrated a higher likelihood of utilizing the internet for health-related information, while older generations tended to rely more on traditional media and interpersonal contacts. Online information-seeking was significantly associated with digital health literacy (Generation Z: β = .192, p < .001; Older generations: β = .337, p < .001). However, only seeking health information from healthcare professionals positively correlated with health empowerment (Generation Z: β = .070, p < .002; Older generations: β = .089, p < .001). Notably, despite more frequent internet use for health inquiries, Generation Z exhibited less interest in seeking health information overall, comparable digital literacy, and lower levels of health empowerment than older generations.

Implications:  This study investigated and compared the health information-seeking of Generation Z and older individuals, aiming to enhance digital health literacy and health empowerment. Both groups displayed distinct preferences for information sources, and significant relationships were identified between health empowerment, eHealth literacy, and information-seeking behaviors.

Values: This research provides concrete evidence to understand health information-seeking habits in newer generations and highlights the differences in the utilization of various health information sources. These findings can inform strategies to promote health literacy and empowerment among Chinese citizens.

2023 First Prize Paper