Generation Silver Surfer: Older people are digitally active – but need support

More and more people aged 65 and over are online in Germany. This is according to the ‘Senior Citizens in the Digital World’ study by Bitcom e.V., which was conducted on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ).

Internet as a natural part of everyday life

While just under half of German seniors were using the internet 5 years ago,  figure has now risen to a clear majority of 74%. Many can no longer imagine life without the internet. It is not only used for leisure activities, but also to stay mentally active and keep in touch with family and friends.

The internet also plays an important role in everyday tasks: communicating via email or text messages, searching for information, online banking, shopping and travel planning are part of everyday life for many senior citizens.

Positive attitude towards digitalisation – with clear expectations

The 65+ generation sees opportunities in digitalisation (81%), and two-thirds of respondents would like to see it progress at a faster pace. At the same time, 80% expect political decisions to take greater account of the needs of older people.

Despite this openness, many rate their own digital skills as only average, giving themselves a school grade of 3.2 (school grade 1 means very good; school grade 6 means very poor). With increasing age, uncertainty in dealing with digital applications grows: 65- to 69-year-olds rate themselves with a school grade of 2.6, 70- to 74-year-olds give themselves a 3.1, 75- to 79-year-olds a 3.5, and the oldest, aged 80 and above, rate themselves only 3.7.

Obstacles for Non-Users

Approximately a quarter of the older population remains offline (26%). Only 41% of offline users cite a lack of interest as the reason. The main reasons for not using the internet are a lack of knowledge, security concerns, a lack of technical equipment or financial obstacles. At the same time, it is clear that only 41% have no interest in the internet whatsoever.

High need for support

Almost all respondents (96%) would like to see support services to help them develop their digital skills. Telephone support (65%), free training (66%) and on-site advice (60%) are particularly in demand.

54% receive help with technical questions mainly from friends, family and acquaintances, and 42% try out digital innovations on their own. In contrast, 33% of older people do not acquire any new digital skills.

Openness towards AI

A majority of 58% are open to technological innovations. Many have already gained experience with artificial intelligence or are interested in its use, for example in the healthcare sector. At the same time, there are uncertainties regarding usability and possible effects.

About the study

The digital association Bitkom e.V. surveyed 1,004 people in Germany aged 65 and over. The survey period was from mid-September to mid-October (calendar weeks 38 to 42, 2025). A presentation on the study is available at this link.