Tech News Summary:
- McKinsey Health Institute’s report shows that technology is increasingly viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury for adults aged 55 and over.
- Around 42% of those over 80 use smartphones and 25% use laptops, but enthusiasm drops off among the oldest group.
- The main barriers to technology adoption among seniors are cost and lack of awareness, and the report recommends lowering costs and providing more education to encourage greater adoption.
According to McKinsey, technology is rapidly becoming an integral part of daily life for people aged 55 and above. In fact, it seems that “Tech Takes Center Stage,” as more and more people in this demographic are embracing digital tools and devices.
The report suggests that older adults are using technology to stay connected with family, friends, and community, as well as to access healthcare, entertainment, and other services. With the COVID-19 pandemic prompting a shift toward remote work, e-commerce, telehealth, and virtual socializing, it seems that seniors are increasingly comfortable with the digital realm.
Some of the most popular tech tools among older adults include video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Skype, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and wearable devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches. Additionally, many seniors are turning to digital assistants like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home to help them with tasks around the home.
While there may still be some misconceptions about older adults and technology (such as the idea that they’re not “tech-savvy”), the McKinsey report suggests that seniors are more tech-savvy than ever before. As technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that these trends will only continue to grow.
Overall, it seems clear that seniors are embracing technology as a way to stay connected, healthy, and engaged in their communities. And with so many benefits to offer, it’s no surprise that “Tech Takes Center Stage” among this demographic.