Don’t write off members of the Silent Generation when it comes to technology use.
Smartphone, tablet and social media use have increased among these older adults over the past several years, according to data from the Pew Research Center, which defines the generation as those turning 74 to 91 this year.
Smartphone ownership went from 30% in 2018 to 40% in 2019 among this age group.
Tablet computer ownership increased from 17% in 2013 to 25% in 2018 to 33% in 2019.
Use of social media trended upward from 15% in 2012 to 23% in 2018 to 28% in 2019.
Facebook was a popular form of social media among members of this generation. Use grew from 21% in 2012 to 22% in 2015 to 26% in 2018 and 37% in 2019.
Members of the Silent Generation lag other generations in using technology, however, and Pew said some reasons include a lack of confidence and physical challenges.
The survey was conducted in January and February.
