People Over 50 Are Avid Tech Users — So Why Are They Ignored?

A 2018 AARP survey estimated that people older than 50 will spend more than $84 billion annually on technology products over the next decade, yet technology makers have little regard for their needs, other than medical and care applications, reports Forbes . Currently, 91 percent of American adults 50 and up report having a computer, and more than 80 percent between 50 and 64 have smartphones. A 2016 survey by AARP and the Entertainment Software Association determined 38 percent of Americans 50 and older play video games, with 59 percent playing on computers and laptops and 57 percent playing on mobile phones. Moreover, 40 percent said they played a game every day, and people older than 60 were most likely to be frequent players. Meanwhile, a 2018 Pew Research survey found social media usage among 50- to 64-year-olds has expanded to 64 percent in the last several years. Also noticeable is a sharp gain in online shopping among older consumers. These various trends point to lucrative opportunities for technology companies to cater to older demographics, outside of the health and senior care sectors.