Just recently, during a website walk through, a young client said to me, “Sure, I understand how to check the site. I’m 23 years old. Not like the 50 year olds who can’t even use the computer.” My 40 year-old mouth fell open as I listened over the phone. Of all the nerve! But providing good customer service kept me from exploding.

Computers and the internet are being widely used by many. Not just the youngsters who think they own the world. Business owners, website owners and those looking for information online come in all ages, shapes and sizes.

Age may play a role in how individuals use the Internet but is no longer a key in if an individual uses the Internet. It is now very common for seniors to check their email on a regular basis and use social networking tools, accessing Twitter and Facebook. Seniors are now using the internet just as much as any other person. It has become even easier for them with brightly colored keyboards and zoom technology for easier reading.

According to the Internet and American Life – the 2010 Generations Report – age as a determining factor  seems to be losing significance. Accessing health-related information online is now the third most popular online activity for all Internet users regardless of age.

Wireless net access is also increasing among the mid to older generation. People aged 46-55 access websites or other digital media or services via a laptop, cell phone, or other internet-connected mobile device. That figure drops to 46% for people aged 56-64, and 33% for people aged 65-73. 

Business owners need to understand and incorporate new technologies. Reach out to the senior audience online. Otherwise you are distancing yourself from more and more potential clients, because website usage and social media are continuing to grow. Still think you should wait to get your website up and running? I think not!

By guest author,

Vicki Fields, Client Web Content Manager for New LifeStyles