Seniors more likely to be connected to the Internet
Seniors are increasingly more likely to be connected to the Internet, and
those that aren't connected would probably like to be. I've found the following
data to be very interesting, which has been collected from various studies.
E-mail keeps them connected to family members and others and they currently feel
as though they are being left out. Of those connected, 69% say it's brought
their families closer together, and they are the fastest growing segment of the
market.
They are able to share more intimate information with e-mail because of the
consistency of their communication instead of a brief phone call.
The average amount of time they spend online is 18 hours per week.
92% say the Internet has improved the quality of their lives.
Jupiter Communications projects that the number of older Americans online will
increase from 14 million to 27.3 million by 2003.
According to Katie Sloan, Director of Applied Gerontology, AARP, "The Internet
serves as social glue in facilitating better communication with friends and
families and opens new worlds in research and information and better shopping
opportunities".
93% go online to e-mail and instant message, send online greatening cards and
pictures, correspond with their children, grandchildren and other family members
and friends.
Older Americans are gaining independence by having access to a centralized
source of information day or night, seven days a week, where they don't have to
worry about business hours or finding transportation.
In an AARP survey, they found that 54% shop on the Internet with the most
frequently purchased items being computer hardware & software, books, music, and
clothing. Seniors with incomes under $50k made 10 purchases per year and incomes
over $75k made 20 purchases. They were overwhelmingly satisfied with 82% saying
the product "completely" met their expectations.
Online games are also popular such as bingo, trivia, and bridge. Games are a
non-threatening way to learn basic computer skills, like using a mouse.
Prescriptions can be purchased on the Internet saving as much as 50%. 53% check
their financial investments, 65% search travel and vacation options, 69% find
medical and health resources.
According to a recent Microsoft survey, over 23% of new PC buyers are over the
age of 55. That's an increase of over 150% from last year, says Craig Spiezle,
director of the Microsoft Senior Initiative. "In fact, seniors who are online
are using the Internet more hours per week then any other age group."
As the world continues to become more dependent on e-mail and the Web, the
pressure for senior citizens to stay in touch using this technology keeps
growing. As one spokesperson for a Senior Citizen Center that offers classes
stated "As long as we offer the introduction class, we will always have enough
sign ups," says the senior center manager. "Our seniors truly want to be a part
of the computer age and computer technology."
SOURCE: cyber-seniorsusa.com
By
cyber-seniorsusa.com Date
01-05-2006
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