Research on the Reconstruction of the Elderly’s Role from Passive Acceptance to Active Innovation in the Digital Silver Economy of China’s Megalopolises: A Case Study of Chengdu

Abstract

This study focuses on the transformation process and reconstruction mechanism of the role of the elderly group in Chengdu under the background of the digital silver economy in China’s megalopolises. With the acceleration of population aging and the rapid development of digital technology, the silver economy has become increasingly prominent in the economy of urban agglomerations. Taking Chengdu as an example, this paper adopts a mixed research method, including questionnaire survey, in-depth interview, and case analysis, to explore the transformation process of the elderly group from passively accepting digital technology to actively participating in innovation. The study finds that the role reconstruction of the elderly group in Chengdu in the digital silver economy is mainly reflected in the following aspects: (1) The improvement of digital literacy promotes the transformation of the elderly from technology users to innovation participants; (2) The improvement of social support networks promotes the integration of the elderly into the digital economic ecology; (3) Policy guidance and market driving jointly promote the release of the innovative ability of the elderly group. Based on the research results, this paper puts forward policy suggestions to promote the role reconstruction of the elderly group, including improving the digital technology education system, building an elderly-friendly digital environment, and encouraging the elderly to innovate and start businesses. This research provides a new perspective and empirical basis for understanding and promoting the development of the digital silver economy in megalopolises, and is of great significance for promoting the active participation of the elderly group in the digital economy and realizing the sustainable development of urban agglomerations.