Charity: Offline services still vital for older folk

CHARITY chiefs have reminded companies of their offline responsibilities to older people – despite a sharp rise in the number of silver surfers.

According to communications regulator Ofcom, smartphone use among people aged 75 or older increased from 8% in 2015 to 15% last year. In the 65-74 age group, the figure rose from 28% to 39%.

However, the vast majority of older people still do not bother with smartphones and tablets. And Age Scotland have warned against neglecting folk who find the digital age daunting.

Derek Young, the charity’s senior policy officer, said: “It is predictable that, over time, older people would more regularly own and use digital devices.

“Doing so can be life-enhancing, particularly by opening up opportunities for older people to be more independent but also more connected with their wider families and friends.

“However, most older people still go online far less frequently.

“Businesses and public services must recognise their responsibility to ensure access for those who lack the means, skills, motivation or confidence to use digital devices, so that they aren’t disadvantaged or excluded completely.”

The charity recognised that banks were making it increasingly easy for customers to access services online, but it was also becoming harder to find postal addresses and phone numbers.

Older people have also reported finding it difficult to ensure they receive bank statements and utility bills in paper rather than electronic form.

Ofcom’s research also found that smartphones have overtaken computers as the device which most adults use to go online.