US: More Seniors Use Technology to Stay Connected

Recent study shows Internet use by mature adults up 6 percent (age 50-64); 9 percent (age 65+)

Technology has become a critical means for older adults to stay connected and find the information they need. A February 2005 National Survey of Seniors’ Attitudes on Technology found that seniors are embracing technology in growing numbers. The survey of 750 adults age 50 and older was conducted by Public Strategies Inc., a national public affairs consulting firm.

The survey found that 64 percent of adults age 50-64 and 31 percent of adults 65+ are using the Internet, a significant increase over previously reported figures. A February 2004 survey by the Pew Internet and American Life Project found that 58 percent of adults age 50-64 and 22 percent of adults 65+ were online.

« We are seeing significant growth in the number of people seeking help to get online, » said Marcia Kerz, president of The OASIS Institute, a St. Louis- based national non-profit education organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people age 50 and older. Last year OASIS provided technology training to more than 6,400 mature adults through its education centers in 25 U.S. cities.

« Isolation and loneliness are major factors affecting the aging population and can lead to serious health problems. The use of technology to communicate can help alleviate this. As seniors gain access and the skills to use e-mail and the Internet, they are better equipped to stay connected with family, friends and essential information, » said Kerz.

A June 2003 survey of participants completing OASIS computer classes showed that 81 percent felt more connected to others while 87 percent felt up- to-date and in step with the world.

« It’s wonderful to be able to communicate with the computer, » says Mitzi McCrary of San Diego, Calif. She has taken several computer courses at OASIS and recently had a DSL line installed at home. « I correspond with out-of-state relatives and friends. And I’ve met some wonderful people in the computer classes. It helps to know that we’re all in the same boat. »

Kerz underscored seniors’ need for affordable access to the Internet. The National Survey of Seniors’ Attitudes on Technology also asked older adults about their options. Regarding their choices for communications providers, 89 percent of adults age 50+ surveyed were satisfied with their options for local telephone service. In addition, 66 percent felt the cost of their phone service was reasonable, compared to 62 percent of the general public.

The survey also explored seniors’ attitudes about changes in the telecommunications industry. Since 2000, 33 telecommunications mergers have occurred. Regarding the recent announcement of the merger of SBC and AT&T, 78 percent of the adults 50+ said the merger « doesn’t matter » to them, compared to 64 percent of the general public. « The growth in alternative communications services, including wireless, cable, broadband and long distance companies, has increased the choices available to consumers, » said Kerz.

The aging population trend also will contribute to an aging workforce. As life expectancy increases, people are working longer or returning to the workforce after retirement. By 2015, 20 percent of the U.S. work force will be over age 55, up from 13 percent in 2000, according to estimates by the National Council on the Aging.

This trend has led to growing interest in OASIS programs offering workplace technology skills. New courses to be developed in 2005 will address workplace skills, including spreadsheets, presentations and word processing, as well as job search skills using Internet resources. Founded in 1982, OASIS creates opportunities for mature adults committed to personal growth, community involvement and a deeper understanding of the world around them by offering challenging programs in the arts, humanities, health promotion and volunteer service. For information, visit http://www.oasisnet.org .

OASIS programs are offered in 25 cities and serve 360,000 participants.

Source: The OASIS Institute