Disconnect: Tech Chasm Among Older Adults

Oct 20, 2014

Home OfficeThere are technology haves and have-nots among older adults.

That’s the key finding from the 2014 Pew Research Internet Project’s “Older Adults and Technology Use” survey, which defines “older adults” as ages 65 and up.

Noted Pew’s most recent research:

“Two different groups of older Americans emerge. The first group (which leans toward younger, more highly educated, or more affluent seniors) has relatively substantial technology assets, and also has a positive view toward the benefits of online platforms.”

That defines most of the “older adults” I know in the insurance industry. That also defines the people that have come to WAHVE and have become comfortable and productive as wahves, who share key characteristics such as:

Experience with technology in the workplace.

Awareness of benefits of using technology to connect to co-workers and clients.

Realization that they must make a commitment to adapting to technology and learning how to use it.

Openness to trying technology as it emerges. (For example, as Pew reports: In 2014, 47% of those over 65 had a high-speed internet connection at home, up from the 39 percent two years prior.)

The technology “haves” gain significant advantage in their lives. I’ve worked with hundreds of wahves in the past four years. I’ve seen how they are gaining tremendous flexibility and connection by using technology to work remotely.

These wahves inspire me and are productive for WAHVE’s clients. Here’s an example that was featured by A.M. Best TV.

If you share the characteristics of a technology “have” and also possess insurance experience, WAHVE wants to hear from you. Visit our “Become A Wahve” page.

— Sharon Emek, Ph.D.
Founder and CEO
Work At Home Vintage Experts (WAHVE)

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