Older internet users just as competent as younger

Statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that a higher proportion of older internet users (63%) compared to any other age group choose to download computer software such as video games, rather than relying on postal delivery. In addition 34% have downloaded music and films, just shy of people aged 16-24 (42%).

Nearly four out of five (78%) older internet users surf the web to find out information about goods and services, over half (55%) use travel and accommodation websites, and nearly one in five use social networking like facebook and twitter.

However, while many people in later life are taking advantage of the array of benefits the web has to offer, the gap between those older people who are not using the internet and those who are already online is growing.

This week, Age UK is running free events across the country for itea and biscuits week to give people in later life the chance to use technology like the internet and digital cameras, often for the first time.

Getting online is 'Absolutely Fabulous'

To help encourage some of the 5.7 million people 65 and over who have never been online, Age UK is also calling on people of all ages to help older people get online. The appeal has been backed by actress June Whitfield, and footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips.

‘Absolutely Fabulous’ actress June Whitfield is not only calling on others to help older people to get online, but is also pledging to develop her own knowledge of the internet during itea and biscuits week. She will then help others to get online during the BBC and Race Online 2012 'Give an Hour' campaign in October.

Age UK has set June this challenge to encourage people of all ages to pass on their knowledge of technology to older people. June said: 'The internet is really important to modern life, so I think it’s vital that people embrace it. Although I have been online, I still consider myself to be a novice so I’m really looking forward to learning more about the internet and developing my skills.'

Why not help an older person get online?

Footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips is also supporting Age UK’s call for people to pass on their knowledge of technology to older people. Shaun said: 'I love technology and don’t know what I’d do without the internet or gadgets like my smart phone and MP3 player. Millions of older people are not online and miss out on the benefits of technology, like being able to use the internet to keep in touch with family and mates. So go on, help set your nan up with an email address or get your older neighbour playing FIFA during Age UK’s itea and biscuits week!'

Helena Herklots, Services Director at Age UK, said: 'We know that when people are online they are extremely active; in fact, research shows that older people who are online spend more time surfing the web than other generations. Therefore if you know how to use a computer, mobile phone or digital camera, why not teach an older person you know? It could make a huge difference to their life.'

Martha Lane Fox, UK Digital Champion, said: 'It’s impossible to imagine life without the internet for anyone who uses it regularly. I firmly believe you are never too old to get started with the web – in fact it’s older people who have the most to benefit from being online. The internet is a vital tool to help reduce isolation and ensure people stay independent for longer.'

To find your local itea and biscuits week event, and for more information on getting the most out of the internet, call 0800 169 65 65 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/itea-and-biscuits.

Added 20th September, 2011 from the AgeUK website