Updated August 2025
According to the Pew Research Center, 98% of Americans age 50–64 are online. Even more surprising, 90% of Americans 65 and older report that they use the internet, up from 63% ten years ago.
How Seniors Use the Internet
A 2025 report by AARP identifies the ways in which Americans who are 50 or older use the internet. About 91% of Americans in that age group own a smartphone while 72% have a laptop or Netbook. About 50% use a desktop computer. They use those devices daily for multiple purposes:
- 81% browse the web
- 80% communicate with families and friends
- 79% shop on the internet
- 76% check the weather
- 76% consult maps or obtain navigation assistance
- 74% access social media
- 73% view photos
- 65% make online banking transactions
- 57% stream movies or videos
- 52% listen to music
- 51% read newspapers or magazines
- 50% play games
Lesser but still significant uses that older adults make of the internet include telemedicine, pursuing hobbies, and watching sports.
Generations Online
While about half of Americans were online in the year 2000, that percentage increased to 96% by the end of 2024. Pew Research Center found that internet adoption rates for various age groups varies, although the gap between the oldest and youngest internet users has closed substantially during in recent years. As of late 2024, different generations use the internet at these rates:
- Gen Z (18-29) – 99%
- Millennials (30-49) – 99%
- Gen X (50-64) – 98%
- Baby Boomers (65+) – 90%
Resources
There is a vast array of resources out there for seniors who want to get on the information superhighway, and develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities the internet has to offer.
Cyber-Seniors: Founded in 2015, this nonprofit organization uses volunteers to help older adults solve their technology problems. Cyber-Seniors also offers webinars in technology-related subjects and has a PDF library on helpful topics, such as How to Use an iPhone Camera and Online Banking Safety.
Colleges and Universities: Many colleges and universities have free college courses for seniors through their extension programs. Others where an Aging Studies Center or Institute on Aging exists are great resources. Check with your local university or community college for course availability.
Internet: A number of websites serve as search engines for free college courses. One such site is eLearners.
Libraries: Many public libraries offer computer classes. These could be self-study classes for computer basics or organized training sessions. In many places, library members have access to free computer courses. Check with your local library for information.
AARP: The AARP website has an extensive list of computer classes offered through their organization all over the country. AARP’s Senior Planet site also offers educational videos on a variety of topics, including Internet Basics.
Sources:
*SeniorNet
** Pew Internet and American Life Project
(This article was updated August 2025.)