There’s a persistent misconception that older adults struggle with technology. However, many residents are not only adapting to technological advancements but thriving with them. This blog post aims to debunk five myths about technology use among older adults, showing how your loved ones are more tech-savvy than you might think.
Older Adults Dislike New Technology
A common belief is that older adults resist using new technology. The reality, however, is much different. In fact, half of older adults express an interest in learning more about using technology. Many rely on smartphones, tablets and other gadgets to stay connected with friends and family.
Whether through video calls or social media, these tools have become essential for maintaining relationships. As technology becomes more accessible and user-friendly, the reluctance to use it is fading, allowing older adults to embrace the digital world.
Few Older Adults Use Smartphones
Another myth is that residents don’t use smartphones. While this may have been true a decade ago, the adoption of smartphones among older adults has skyrocketed. Currently, about 80% of people aged 50 to 64 and over 60% of those 65 and older own a smartphone.
They use their devices for a variety of purposes, such as scheduling telehealth appointments, ordering prescriptions and even staying informed through online news sources. This growing comfort with smartphones reflects a significant shift in how older adults interact with the world around them.
Most Older Adults Don’t Surf the Internet
It’s easy to assume that older adults don’t spend much time online, but the data shows otherwise. More than three-fourths of people 65 and older are regular internet users and nearly 75% use it daily. Social media usage among this age group has also increased significantly over the past decade.
Many older adults are joining platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with loved ones and stay up to date with community events and exclusive programs, activities and events. Clearly, the internet plays a vital role in keeping older adults engaged and informed.
Older Adults Utilize Outdated Technology
Contrary to popular belief, older adults aren’t stuck using outdated gadgets. A significant portion—approximately 45%—of those 65 and older own tablets and almost 70% of them use these devices daily.
Tablets offer a convenient, user-friendly interface that appeals to older users, especially for reading, watching videos and video chatting with family.
Many newer devices are specifically designed with older users in mind, featuring larger screens, simpler navigation and helpful features that make them perfect for everyday use.
Older Adults Can’t Use Video Technology
Many people think that video technology is beyond the capabilities of older adults. The truth is that one in three older adults regularly uses video technology. This can be through video calls with loved ones, participating in virtual meetings or attending online classes.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of video technology and older adults quickly adapted, using these tools to stay connected. Whether for personal or professional reasons, video technology has become a valuable resource for older adults, debunking the myth that they can’t or won’t use it.
At our Independent Living community, we understand the importance of keeping your loved ones connected and engaged through technology. We offer an environment where older adults can explore tech options in a supportive, welcoming space.
