Older adults are too often stereotyped as being incapable of learning to use new technologies. Studies suggest that seniors may resist new technology because they worry that failing to use it properly would contribute to negative stereotypes about their age group.

Research confirms that older adults, when given a chance, “are just as capable as their younger counterparts to master new tools and technologies.” Yet seniors are often discouraged from using technology by younger people who assume their grandparents or older friends “just won’t get it.”

Encouraging older parents and friends to use the internet is a useful way to overcome stereotypes. Suggesting websites they might enjoy will send the message that age is not a barrier to using the internet.

The Pandemic Changed Attitudes

The pandemic motivated many seniors to acquire and learn to use new technologies to stay connected with friends and family. A psychologist explains that seniors “who saw no value in having access to a computer or mobile device before the pandemic now see that value because having access allows them to connect with family and loved ones.”

One survey of older adults found that 56% of participants adopted new technology during the pandemic. By conducting their own research or learning from family members and friends (including tech-savvy seniors), older adults were able to mitigate social isolation by using the internet.

Benefits of Internet Use

Regular use of the internet offers multiple benefits for seniors, including:

• Staying connected. Maintaining connections is a vital part of healthy aging. Older adults can make or receive video calls with children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends by using messaging apps on a cellphone or computer.

• Online medical consultations. Many clinics offer online consultations with older patients. Consultations can be paired with health monitoring devices that allow seniors to upload real-time measurements of their heartrate, blood pressure, and glucose levels.

• Mental stimulation. Mental exercise is as important to healthy aging as physical exercise. Engaging the mind by exploring websites of interest alleviates boredom. Research suggests that regular use of the internet delays cognitive impairment and reduces the risk of dementia.

• Increased independence. Seniors may be able to reduce their dependence on caregivers by ordering food deliveries and rides through apps on their cellphones.

• Entertainment. While the internet helps people be productive, few internet users can resist the lure of watching amusing videos, listening to favorite songs, or reading interesting and fun articles. No less than their children and grandchildren, seniors can find new sources of entertainment by surfing the net.

Affordable Internet

Seniors living on tight budgets might regard the internet as a luxury they can’t afford. The reality is that internet access is no longer a luxury. It has become essential to healthy aging.

Fortunately, older adults often have options that reduce the cost of their internet access. Some retirement communities and assisted-living facilities include internet access in their monthly fees. Others negotiate discounted fees for their residents.

Seniors who live independently may be able to find an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that offers reduced rates or free router rentals for older adults. A recent article on MSN (reprinted from ALot.com) describes the senior discounts offered by several ISPs.

Low-income seniors may be able to take advantage of Lifeline or other government programs that will help them pay for internet service. Community organizations and senior centers might also make free Wi-Fi hotspots available to older adults who register for the service.