Digital and other forms of contact between older European parents and children: the role of internet use, digital skills, emotional and geographical distance

Guided by the intergenerational solidarity model and leveraging rich data from the European Social Survey round 10 (2020–2022), we examine the role of internet use, digital skills, emotional and geographical distance in influencing various forms of contact between parents aged 60 or above and their children. Emotional closeness emerges as a universal driver of contact of all forms. Geographical proximity is positively associated with face-to-face interactions, but negatively with video calls. Internet use and digital skills positively associate with digital contact. Our findings suggest that fostering digital inclusion among older adults is crucial, emphasizing the role of digital literacy in maintaining family connections in a digital world. Overall, our study provides insights into adapting familial bonds amidst the digital transformation.