The web has been in full swing now for 15 years. The thing nobody understood at first and thought was a fad, now is the focal point of our lives, for a majority of us. It is where we look for advice, news and recommendations. That means it is now where we go to decide on purchasing – or at least a huge influencer.
But now I see my grandparents getting totally involved in the web, social networking and communicating online. It makes sense. They have the time to do it and it’s not so intimidating as it once was. They may need an initial digital intervention from the family, but in essence most are figuring it out on their own.
The Pew Internet organization has released data regarding seniors and technology usage. You would be surprised at how your mom, dad and grandparents are using the internet and mobile devices. I expect these numbers to grow exponentially as well as there are 20,000 people turning 65 every day in the US alone.
- Cell phones are by far the most popular device among American adults. Some 85% of adults own cell phones, and 90% of all adults—including 62% of those age 75 and older—live in a household with at least one working cell phone.
- Desktop computers are most popular with adults ages 35-65, and Millennials are the only generation that is more likely to own a laptop computer or netbook than a desktop: 70% own a laptop, compared with 57% who own a desktop.