The Internet is “Booming” with 50+ Age Users

Baby boomers make up the web's largest constituency, accounting for 1/3 of the 195.3 million Web users in the US¹

Many would say that this is not surprise, since the Boomers are quickly becoming the largest segment of our population. But here's the big difference. Boomers have not "grown" up using computers and many were not required to use computers at their work. The growing use of computers is brought on largely by convenience.

Many of us used to pick up a printed telephone guide book to find a phone number or address, used an encyclopedia to find information, or consulted a human expert to get advice or support. The times are gradually starting to change that it is easier and quicker for many to use the online phone directories or to "google" a place of business to find addresses, phone number or company details.

Encyclopedia's are an unusual item to find in school libraries these days. The growing amount of information on the World Wide Web allows for constant updating of information and unlimited revision and adding of additional information. There are actually many websites on the Internet that are very complete "Encyclopedias" of information.

In regard to speaking with an actual human, nothing will replace a good conversation or the thorough examination of a physician, but many Boomers and Seniors use the web to research conditions, treatments and alternatives before or after visiting their doctor. Also don't be mislead to think that physicians don't also rely heavily on the Internet.

94 million Americans are online on any given day, and 63% use a search engine²

Most first time visitors to a website did not get their by typing a specific web address. They used a search engine to look for key words or phrases and possible a location. Search engines help us look for particular topics of interest and receive multiple choices of sites to visits.

74% of Seniors use the Internet to find health information⁵

The result is a more educated patient, better prepared to ask questions and understand their treatment plan. Patients are able to locate alternative therapies, research drug interactions, find support groups for their diagnosis and become a more active participant in their health and fitness plan.

In 2008, 73.7% of those aged 50-64 and 34.1% of those 65 and above will use Internet³

This number increased every year, partly because more Boomers and Seniors are starting to log on and use the internet and computers for personal reasons not related to the workforce, but also because the population is aging and many, that already use a computer have been added into this statistic. Many wonder what are the types of information that many 50 and better year olds search for on the Internet. As we mentioned earlier, health information is a big topic but other topics include travel plans and on-line shopping.

42 percent of all travel industry purchases happen online⁴

Not too long ago, many of us used a travel agent, because we were traveling to new places, and wanted a hotel in a specific location, needed to price compare, wanted to know what activities would be nearby, etc. Now all of this information can be accessed by the computer. You can take virtual tours of hotel rooms, look at sample restaurant menus, read theater of event revues and even in some cases find a web cam to see what the place looks like. Travel Agents are still quite helpful and offer a unique insight, but many people find themselves better prepared and educated when arriving at their destination because of online research. The travel industry is changing because not just the planning happens on line but also the booking and finalizing of arrangements.

92% of seniors shop online & 78% make online purchases⁵

Booking airline tickets, hotel reservations, and reserving tickets are some of the online purchasing that happens when traveling. But daily purchases occur helping many who have some mobility limitations or lack of transportation. Even if transportation is available, it becomes much more difficult on the return trip with bags in hand from all of the purchases. Common online purchases include gifts, which offer a unique advantage of being shipped directly to the recipient.

30% more likely to purchase online than younger users⁵

There is a lot to be said about convenience. Remember the old adage- "Can't teach a old dog, new trick". Well, they were wrong and who's old anyway.

Want to help others become Internet "savvy"

Check your local senior center, community center or community college for classes on surfing the Internet and learning more about their personal computer. Many classes are free or low cost, and some larger universities offer classes as part of a continuing education programs. This website is also a great place to look for online support and classes in your area.

Good luck and happy clicking!

Source: ¹Jupiter Research, ²Pew Internet and American Life Project, ³e Marketer, ⁴PhoCusWright, ⁵Gary Onks - Sold On Seniors, Inc

Source: The Staff at www.RetirementConnection.com