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Bridging the Digital Disability Divide: Determinants of Internet Use among Visually Impaired Individuals in Thailand

Author

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  • Thitiphat Phochai

    (College of Politics and Governance, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand)

  • Prasongchai Setthasuravich

    (Data Innovation and Public Policy Engineering Research Unit, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand)

  • Aphisit Pukdeewut

    (College of Politics and Governance, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand)

  • Suthiwat Wetchakama

    (Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand)

Abstract

This study investigates the sociodemographic and contextual determinants influencing Internet usage among individuals with visual impairments in Thailand, contributing to the literature on the digital disability divide. Data from the “Disability Survey 2022” conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand were used. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis were performed on data from 5621 visually impaired respondents. The findings indicate that approximately 26.88% of individuals with visual impairments use the Internet. The logistic regression analysis highlights several critical disparities. Males exhibit lower odds of Internet use compared with females (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.850, p = 0.034). Younger individuals are more likely to use the Internet; a decline in use was observed with increasing age (AOR for 60+ years = 0.052, p < 0.001). Regional disparities are evident. Individuals from the northeastern (AOR = 2.044, p < 0.001), central (AOR = 1.356, p < 0.008), and southern (AOR = 1.992, p < 0.001) regions showed higher odds of Internet use compared with those from the northern region. Higher income (AOR for 5000–9999 THB = 1.798, p = 0.001), educational attainment (AOR for bachelor’s degree = 14.915, p < 0.001), and wealth index (AOR for wealthy = 5.034, p < 0.001) increase the likelihood of Internet use. Employed individuals are more likely to use the Internet (AOR = 3.159, p < 0.001) compared with unemployed individuals. Additionally, the severity of the visual impairment is crucial, with those having low vision in both eyes more likely to engage online than those who are completely blind in both eyes (AOR = 5.935, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the need for comprehensive digital inclusion initiatives that address various factors, including age-inclusive digital literacy programs, targeted regional infrastructure development, economic support to improve digital access, and advancements in assistive technologies. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers in Thailand and other developing countries, enhancing the understanding of the digital disability divide and informing strategies to foster greater digital equity.

Suggested Citation

  • Thitiphat Phochai & Prasongchai Setthasuravich & Aphisit Pukdeewut & Suthiwat Wetchakama, 2024. "Bridging the Digital Disability Divide: Determinants of Internet Use among Visually Impaired Individuals in Thailand," Disabilities, MDPI, vol. 4(3), pages 1-28, September.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jdisab:v:4:y:2024:i:3:p:43-723:d:1479817
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Setthasuravich, Prasongchai & Sirikhan, Kulacha & Kato, Hironori, 2024. "Spatial econometric analysis of the digital divide in Thailand at the sub-district level: Patterns and determinants," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 48(8).
    2. Fiorella Fuentes & Antonia Moreno & Fernando Díez, 2022. "The Usability of ICTs in People with Visual Disabilities: A Challenge in Spain," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(17), pages 1-17, August.
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