Pensioners Embrace New Technology
Findings from an Ipsos survey on behalf of Help the Aged and BT suggest that older people are keen to embrace new technology, with over two-fifths (44%) of those aged 65 and over owning a mobile phone, and a quarter (26%) recognising that new technology will help them to remain independent in their home as they get older. Contrary to the stereotype of older people being out of touch with technology, the research suggests that many among the older generations can, and would like to, benefit from it but are being held back because they don't know how to use it or haven't been taught (20%). A third (31%) are concerned that technology is complicated and confusing.
Findings from an Ipsos survey on behalf of Help the Aged and BT suggest that older people are keen to embrace new technology, with over two-fifths (44%) of those aged 65 and over owning a mobile phone, and a quarter (26%) recognising that new technology will help them to remain independent in their home as they get older. Contrary to the stereotype of older people being out of touch with technology, the research suggests that many among the older generations can, and would like to, benefit from it but are being held back because they don't know how to use it or haven't been taught (20%). A third (31%) are concerned that technology is complicated and confusing.
Technical details
- Ipsos interviewed a representative sample of 1,859 adults aged 18+ across Great Britain.
- Interviews were carried out face-to-face, in home, using CAPI, as part of the Ipsos Capibus.
- Fieldwork was conducted between 7-13 April 2006 in 162 sampling points.
- The sample design ensures that data accurately reflect the GB population in terms of region and area types as well as informant demographics. In order to correct for minor deviations, Capibus uses a rim weighting system which weights to NRS defined profiles for age, social grade, region and working status -- within gender.
