Internet use growing amongst older people

The fact that an increasing number of older people are using the internet should be taken into consideration by internet providers and advertisers.

That is according to Gordon Lishman, director general of Age Concern, who noted that approximately 60 per cent of people over the age of 50 had computer access.

He said that this group of consumers utilised the internet for a range of reasons, such as pursuing hobbies or social networking.

Mr Lishman also indicated that older people kept in touch with family members via the web.

However, despite the increased internet use amongst the over fifties, he asserted that there were not enough websites specifically targeted at this age group.

Mr Lishman commented: "Whilst there´s a lot on the web for older people, there are less websites targeted at the over 50s than other groups. Web providers need to switch on to the buying power and increasing internet usage of the grey pound."

Internet users aged over 60 spend typically spend two hours online per day, according to a recent alljoinon.com poll.

© Adfero Ltd