Internet use survey
Published on 28 March 2014 10:30 AM
The Welsh Government has today issued figures about internet use in Wales.
They show that 61% of people aged 65 and over in Wales are not currently using the internet; that 67% of over 75s don't want to use the web, and 44% say they don't need to go online.
Commenting on the figures, Age Cymru's Healthy Ageing Manager, Claire Bottomley, says:
"The internet really can be pivotal in life and it allows people to keep up-to-date with news and information.
"It allows us to stay in contact with friends and relatives, which helps to combat loneliness and isolation.
"The internet can also open the doors to better financial and shopping deals, as well as broadening access to useful services.
"These figures show there are many older people who want to go online but are unable to do so because they don't have the necessary skills.
"They also show that single pensioner households were those who were most likely not to have ever been online and this is a key group that is missing out on the benefits of the internet.
"We need to find ways to provide these people with access to the internet through initiatives such as Age Cymru's iTea and Biscuits Week.
"It's important as well to note in this survey that there are people who have said they don't want to or do not need to use the internet.
"While there may be a case for trying to persuade those people about the merits of being online, at the end of the day we must respect individuals' choices.
"This is why - in an increasingly internet-driven world, it is important that public and private sector companies continue to provide information and consumer services in ways that are accessible to everyone."