The digitalisation and its impact on lifestyle and quality of life

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyse the impact of digitalization on people’s lifestyles and quality of life based on foreign studies, to identify key positive and negative effects for the health and well-being of individuals and the population as a whole.Materials and methods. The bibliosemantic method and the system analysis method were used, the materials included the results of foreign studies and methodological developments on the process of digitalization and its impact on various aspects of human life, particularly lifestyle and quality of life.Results. The results of foreign studies demonstrate that digital technologies are transforming the social, economic, and cultural aspects of life, simultaneously creating new opportunities and challenges. There is a significant impact of digitalization on the social and mental components of human health, which are inextricably linked to physical health. The analysis of published research results has shown that the use of digital resources can both reduce and exacerbate social isolation, contributing to the development of anxiety and depression.A review of studies indicates that uncontrolled or excessive use of the Internet can worsen mental health, contributing to stress and emotional difficulties. Prolonged use of digital devices is associated with sleep disturbances, reduced physical activity, musculoskeletal disorders, and a decline in quality of life. The use of the Internet (email, smartphones, computers) allows people to shift from the traditional length of the workday to a more flexible work schedule, which can improve balance. However, excessive use of the Internet may have the opposite effect, disrupting the boundary between work and personal life. The impact of digitalization depends on socio-economic factors, the level of digital literacy, and the ability to control technology use. Its positive influence is primarily determined by its application in the organization of healthcare services. The use of information and communication technologies makes it possible to improve the quality of life of elderly people by reducing their social isolation, though it requires a complex adaptation process. Studies demonstrate the use of digital tools to enhance the quality of life for individuals with various health conditions through self-care counseling, lifestyle modifications, and well-being monitoring. Digital sources are often used by students to obtain information about health. Students are also supplied by active support in modifying risky behaviours through specially organised applications, including those aimed at reducing the use of psychoactive substances among teenagers and youth. Technological interventions – such as smartphone applications, online, or web-based tools – are promising for improving dietary patterns and reducing the consumption of sugary drinks.Conclusions. Excessive use of gadgets and online platforms can lead to addiction, deteriorating mental health, social isolation, reduced physical activity, and various physiological disorders. Young people become more vulnerable to the negative impact of the digital environment, while the older generation faces challenges in adaptation. At the same time, digital tools improve healthcare services, which is one of the factors influencing the quality of life of the population. The results indicate the need for developing and implementing effective models for building digital literacy, ethical standards for technology use, and a culture of conscious consumption of digital resources.