Over 50s internet use sees practical trump social

Internet users aged 50 and older have embraced the internet as a practical tool, with almost 89 per cent surfing for information and 63 per cent using it to pay bills, according to research by Age Scotland. 

By contrast only 30 per cent use the internet for socialising, with only 11 per cent on Twitter. 

Over 90 per cent of over 50s who use the net go online at least once a day.  People aged 70 and older are more likely to use the internet for shopping and for keeping in touch with family and friends.  They are also less likely to watch YouTube or listen to the radio online.

To mark Itea and Biscuits Week 2012, which aims to inspire and support people in later life to discover the range of benefits that digital technology can offer, Age Scotland has published these findings as an Infographic in partnership with Neo Mammalian Studios.  The research is based on an online survey of 1000 older people undertaken by Age Scotland earlier this year.

Age Scotland spokesperson Doug Anthoney said: "People aged over 50 appear to have evaluated the internet and realised its potential as a time and energy saving technology.  During Itea and Biscuits Week we would encourage older people who have not as yet embraced digital technology to take the opportunity to do so."