Older adults embrace tech, AARP survey finds But few are taking advantage of it to manage their health
By HME News Staff
Updated 2:40 PM CST, Wed December 27, 2023
WASHINGTON – A new AARP survey finds that older Americans are just as likely to own a smartphone, tablet or other device.
Nearly nine out of 10 Americans – 89% of those 50-plus and 90% of those 18-49 – own a smart phone, according to “2024 Tech Trends and Adults 50+.”
Other findings:
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Only 13% of adults 50-plus are currently taking advantage of technology to manage their health, despite 69% having one or more chronic or serious conditions. About one-fifth are aware of and interested in using technology; 42% are aware but not interested.
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For caregivers over 50, 54% use medical digital services, 25% are engaging with health and fitness tracking for themselves, 15% use telemedicine, and 11% take advantage of digital mental health and wellness services.
The results came from an online survey of 3,229 U.S. adults that was conducted in September and October 2023. The national sample was weighted by demographics to be representative of adults by generation and was offered in both English and Spanish.
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