Tech usage among older Americans has exploded since the pandemic began, born from the need to connect with family and friends, obtain healthcare via telemedicine, and engage in online ordering of all sorts. New research from AARP revealed that tech use among older adults is increasing across all categories. Notable usage increases include video conferencing. As of 2019, about 50% of adults over fifty had not used video chat, but by 2020, 70% had. The fact that 54% of those over the age fifty also said they want to learn more about using new technologies is an encouraging sign for their future tech adoption.
Technology Takes Hold
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a lot of talk about the “new normal”. In this article by Chris Hayhurst in HealthTech, Chris emphasizes why technology is now the new normal for older adults. Many businesses that provide age-based services, such as senior residential care and telemedicine, are now realizing that seniors are enthusiastic about technology. Nick Patel, President of ThriveWell Tech, is quoted in the HealthTech article:
“What we learned is that seniors are excited about technology, if you provide them with training and show them what it can do, most really want to use it.”
Tech Spending Up
The proof is in the new numbers as well – tech related spending is up significantly for older adults. In 2019, the average annual spend was $394. In 2020, the average increased to $1144. The top three tech purchases were smartphones, smart TVs, and Bluetooth headsets/earbuds. AARP research also shows that seniors have a particular affinity for tablets, with more than 50% owning one, which is up from 40% in 2019. Eighty percent of those aged 50+ said they use technology in some form to stay connected on a daily basis.
Senior Tech Trends Set to Continue
There is significant evidence that the tech boom among older adults will not be ending anytime soon. Among those who discovered video conferencing and online conveniences like telemedicine and live virtual events, many indicated to AARP that they will continue to use virtual solutions even after the pandemic slows and ends.
For more information about technology usage among the senior population, check out the cited May 2021 article in HealthTech. For user-friendly and HIPAA compliant forms to accompany telehealth solutions, sign up for a free demo at FormDr.
