Technology, seniors and COVID

COVID-19 has significantly increased the use of many technologies among older Canadians: poll.

According to a  survey commissioned by AGE-WELL, and done by Environics Research, conducted between July 16 and July 27, 2020, of 2,026 Canadians over the age of 50 older Canadians have upped their use of many technologies and online services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The survey shows that two-thirds (65%) of Canadians aged 65 and older now own a smartphone, compared to 58% in 2019, and most who own one (83%) use it daily.

During the pandemic, seniors have increased their use of video calls to communicate with family and friends. About a quarter (23%) of Canadians 65+ now use video-calling on their smartphones, twice as many as in 2019; 6 in 10 of whom report increased use due to COVID-19.

When it comes to social media, so popular with a younger demographic, older adults are populating the platforms too. Over one-third (37%) say they use social media to communicate with family and friends (of whom 4 out of 10 reports utilizing it more as a mode of communication due to COVID-19).

And with many seniors staying at home more during COVID-19, two in 10 (19%) of Canadians 65+ are using online shopping for essential items, like groceries, for “health, wellness and/or independence” (of whom 6 in 10 report utilizing it more due to COVID-19).

The survey results show that 72% of Canadians aged 65 and over feel confident using current technology.

 The new survey also looks at the impact of COVID-19 on age-related concerns among older Canadians, who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. About half of respondents aged 50+ are now more concerned about the health and about losing loved ones. Forty-six percent are significantly or more concerned about moving to a nursing home, and 43% feel that way about moving to a retirement home.

On the positive side, over two-thirds (66%) of Canadians over 50 agree that technological advancement can help to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on daily life. The majority agree that technological advances can help them maintain relationships with family and friends, reduce social isolation, pursue hobbies, manage health, maintain mental health and stay safe, independent and active as they age.

The poll also found that half of Canadians aged 50+ are willing to pay out-of-pocket for technology that helps manage health and wellness. 7 in 10 are willing to pay out-of-pocket for technology that allows them to stay at home as they age.