The Over 50s and Technology - Usage and Trends in the US

The over 50s are often portrayed as unable to use technology. This American report from AARP (January 2024) shows this is untrue and that they are embracing and using digital technology in the same way as their younger peers. The report offers fascinating insights on mobile phone use, which social media the over 50s interact with, their preference for apps or web depending on desired outcome, and areas of their lives where they have yet to embrace technology, including healthcare.

There has been a noticeable shift in technology adoption and its use among the over 50s in America. Highlights of this 57-page report from AARP, include:

The 50-plus audience is now at parity with 18-49 year olds regarding ownership of most of the primary tech devices. Nearly all over 50s now own at least one tech device.
They are actively engaged with a variety of digital services. They are more likely to access many of these digital services via an app as opposed to a website.
Four in five (79%) say they use technology to stay connected with friends and family.
Smart home and home safety technology have yet to be unlocked. There is high awareness of smart home technology but over a third are not interested saying it's not needed or too expensive.
68% of over 50s feel technology has not been designed with their age in mind.