Keeping older people connected in a changing digital world
Published on 08 September 2026 10:48 AM
For many of us, going online is simply part of everyday life. We use the internet to keep in touch with family and friends, find information, manage our money, watch television and access essential services. And many older people are online and confidently using digital technology every day. Digital technology can bring real benefits, helping people stay connected, independent and informed.
But not everyone has the skills, confidence or opportunity to make the most of being online. For those people, the increasing move towards digital services can create new barriers.
Around 1.4 million older people in England are digitally excluded, meaning they never go online. And many more have limited digital skills or confidence.
According to research highlighted by Age UK, almost half (49%) of older people who are digitally excluded say they don't go online because they don't feel their IT skills are good enough. Others are concerned about fraud and sharing their personal data, while some simply don't see a reason to use the internet.
Overall, around one in eight people are digitally excluded, with the highest levels of digital exclusion and partial digital exclusion among people aged 85 and over.
Why does this matter for television?
One example of the changes we could see is the future transition away from traditional terrestrial television. This transition hasn't happened yet, and the timing and approach are still being considered. However, it is something that could have a significant impact on people who don't use the internet.
For many older people, television is much more than entertainment. It can be a trusted source of news and information, a way of keeping up with the wider world, and an important source of companionship – particularly for people who live alone.
Ofcom found that 95% of people aged over 65 watched broadcast television at least once a week in 2024. Broadcast television remains particularly important among people aged 75 and over. Government research has also found that households continuing to rely on Freeview were more likely to include older people, disabled people, people living alone, women and people on lower incomes.
If terrestrial broadcasters eventually move their services online, people who currently rely on traditional television could need a broadband connection, suitable equipment such as a smart TV, and the skills and confidence to use digital technology. For someone who has never been online, or who lacks confidence with technology, this could create a significant barrier to something that is currently a familiar and accessible part of everyday life.
Making sure no one is left behind
Millions of older people are happily using and enjoying the online world. But we want to make sure that those who aren't online aren't left behind as more of the services and activities they rely on move into the digital world. That's why Age UK is recommending terrestrial broadcasters not to be allowed to move to internet-only television until proven solutions are in place that are usable, accessible and affordable for everyone.
Digital inclusion isn't simply about being able to browse the internet. It's about having the skills, confidence and access needed to stay connected and have a choice about how you access information, services and entertainment.
How Age UK Norfolk can help
At Age UK Norfolk, we provide a Digital Inclusion service for people aged 50+, helping people develop the skills and confidence they need to get online and make the most of digital technology. Our support is tailored to the individual and can help people develop practical digital skills, build confidence and stay safe online. The service is currently available in North Norfolk, Great Yarmouth and Broadland.
Could you help us reach more people?
Volunteer today - our Digital Inclusion volunteers help older people build their confidence with technology and learn practical skills at their own pace. Together, we can help make sure that as more of everyday life moves online, no one is left behind.