What Tech Are You Using And How
By Jarren Ringle
In December 2025, AARP published a research report titled “2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus”. In this article, I will share some of the key findings from the research. You may be surprised by the findings, but you may also realize that you are using the same technology as other folks your age.
There were 3,083 folks surveyed. The split between men and women was about even, with women at 53%. Over 75% of the respondents were high school grads, had some type of tech school, some college, or had a college degree. They spanned an annual income range, with 47% earning $75k or more.
Smartphone ownership increased from 55% in 2016 to 90% in 2025. The average number of tech devices (phones, tablets, computers, wearables, etc.) increased from 4 in 2016 to 7 in 2025. It should be no surprise that texting is the leading form of communication among the respondents.
So, what are we doing with our tech? The respondents averaged 14 digital services and 10 different apps used in 3 months. These included maps, social media, weather, shopping, banking, and health/fitness tracking. Nine in 10 use social media, and 8 in 10 stream video weekly.
General findings from the survey:
- 66% agree that tech enriches their life. It makes daily life and aging in place easier.
- 46% feel tech can enable a healthy life.
- 50% use smart-home tech, especially cameras and alarms.
- Data privacy is the top-rated barrier to tech adoption. Also, understanding the value tech provides is a barrier to adoption.
Interest in and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is growing quickly. In 2025, 30% of the respondents had used AI. And 58% have interacted with a specific AI platform or application. Older adults are most interested in AI’s health-related monitoring devices and using AI to answer health questions or to provide health guidance. The top concerns about AI are trust, privacy, and data security.
When folks were asked how they felt about having the skills needed to use their technology, the responses varied greatly by age.
| Question | Age 50-59 | Age 60-60 | Age 70-79 | Age 80+ |
| What percent agree and strongly agree that they have the skills necessary to take full advantage of being online? | 70% | 66% | 61% | 48% |
| What percent feels technology isn’t designed with their age group in mind? | 54% | 62% | 63% | 66% |
So, the folks surveyed are using more technology, and many feel it provides value in their daily lives. They seem to be aware of the risks associated with the tech they use or are considering. In addition, they look forward to AI health-related advances while having concerns about the risks associated with it.
How do you compare? Do you share their concerns? Are you staying engaged with technology as it changes?
Jarren Ringle is a member of SourcePoint and a volunteer instructor. SourcePointers come to Jarren for tutelage on their tablets, laptops, and the most popular of all devices – cell phones. He teaches various technology classes throughout the year including one-on-one sessions and group classes. Jarren also volunteers at the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. With many years of project management experience in various technology fields, he enjoys helping others with technology.
Technology 1:1 Assistance: Jarren Ringle provides guidance on technology in a 45-minute time slot. Do you have questions regarding a cell phone, PC, laptop or tablet? Share what the device is and what your question is upon registration so that Jarren can be better prepared to help. >> Schedule your 1:1