To analyze the current situation of cognitive function of the elderly in China and the influence of internet use on the cognitive function of the elderly.

In total 10 546 people aged 60 and above were included in the study. The t-test and variance analysis were used to analyze the differences of cognitive function among elderly groups with different characteristics. Multiple linear regression model was used to explore the effect of internet use on the cognitive function of the elderly.

A total of 2 987 elderly people used the internet, accounting for 28.32% of the total, and the average score of cognitive function of the elderly who used the internet was 14.75±1.86. The average score of cognitive function of the elderly who had not used the internet was 13.34±2.91. There was a significant difference between the two groups (t=-29.48, P < 0.001). The use of the internet was related to the cognitive function of the elderly (β = 0.12, 95%CI: 0.608-0.845, P < 0.001), and the cognitive function of the elderly who used the Internet was better.

Internet use has an impact on the cognitive function of the elderly, and it is suggested that targeted measures be taken to improve the cognitive function of the elderly.