25 April 2023 , 13:25
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Far from being "past it", the nation’s over 75s are tech savvy "gadget-holics", according to research.
A study of 2,000 adults who have a relative aged 75 and over found 30% claim their relations have a home brimming with the latest gizmos – bucking the stereotype that they shy away from technology.
The average person in this age bracket is proficient at using smart phones, laptops and streaming services.
While 28% use WhatsApp and 19% can happily make and receive video calls.
However, 28% said their older relatives have little-to-no understanding of how to use modern technologies, with a further 23% not particularly tech orientated.
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The research was commissioned by the mobile phone company Three UK, which is offering over 75s free digital training sessions in its stores across the country on Sunday 14th May.
Three UK are offering training sessions for over 75s across their UK stores on Sunday May 14. (© SWNS)Spokesperson Craig Miller said: “The research shows how older adults have embraced technology in an increasingly digital world.
“However, it’s not easy for everyone and many people might not have someone close to them who has time to show them how to use new things.
“What the research shows is the capability of older adults to learn how to use anything from a smart speaker to smart doorbell.
“As we prepare to celebrate the Coronation, we have seen how King Charles has taken on a new role, so there’s no reason why others his age can’t adjust to something new, too.”
Of those who are technically proficient, relatives have seen them watch videos on YouTube, send videos via messaging apps and played online games such as crosswords.
And 38% believe their family member goes against the stereotype older people can’t use tech.
While one in six (15%) have gone as far as taking on a form of training, with 45% of those taking a computer class.
However, of all over 75s, 51% are capable of using things like smart speakers and apps.
Many over 75s are well-settled in the digital world (Adam Hughes © SWNS)Respondents polled via OnePoll have attempted to teach their relatives how to access a smartphone or tablet and answer phone and video calls.
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More than a third (36%) would like to learn more about using modern technologies in order to stay connected with their families, keep their brain ticking and to keep up with an ever-changing world.
Yet, one in five respondents don’t believe there’s enough opportunity for older generations to use new tech.
Family members are most commonly relied upon when it comes to education on modern developments, though luckily, 73% reckon they could confidently teach an older person how to use a smartphone.
Customers of Three UK can sign up to their free digital training sessions in their nearest store, spokesperson Craig Miller added: “It’s entirely understandable why certain technologies could seem daunting to someone older who’s not spent their whole life in a digital age.
“However, we really want to give those over 75 an opportunity to brush up on their skills – or learn from scratch – how to use things like mobile phones and computers.
“As a result, we’re putting on free workshops across all our stores in the UK to do just that with all skill levels welcome.”
TOP 10 TECH ADVANCEMENTS OVER 75 PEOPLE ARE COMFORTABLE WITH:
- Smartphone
- Tablet
- Laptop
- Desktop computer
- Video calls
- DAB Radio
- Streaming services, e.g. Youtube, Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc.
- Smart meter
- Online food shopping