Older Americans Spend 22 Hours Online Weekly, Survey Reveals

A recent survey has found that older Americans are spending an average of 22 hours per week engaged with screens. The research, commissioned by Centrum Silver, aimed to investigate how technology usage relates to cognitive abilities as people age. Conducted by Talker Research, the survey sampled 2,000 Americans aged 50 and over and revealed that the majority of screen time is dedicated to watching television, followed by internet browsing, gaming, and computer work.

Participants also reported engaging in daily activities such as video chatting, scrolling through social media, and reading on e-readers or tablets. Despite this significant screen presence, concerns about the potential negative effects of screen time remain prevalent among older adults; 39% expressed worries about addiction, while 23% mentioned fears of cognitive decline, describing it as “rotting the brain.”

These worries are embedded in a broader context, as more than 78% of older adults are anxious about cognitive aging. Nearly all respondents, 96%, emphasized the importance of maintaining their cognitive abilities and memory as they grow older.

Finding Balance Between Screen Time and Cognitive Health

According to Josh Gabriele, Brand Director at Centrum, the findings reflect a notable tension in the lives of older adults. “Many see screen time as a daily part of life, even as they worry it could be harmful,” he stated. He added that recent research indicates that when used purposefully—such as engaging in reading, learning, or connecting with others—screen time can actually promote cognitive resilience.

The survey also highlighted that older adults recognize the potential benefits of their screen usage. Approximately 58% reported that screen time helps them feel more connected, while 54% feel it keeps them informed. Additionally, 39% noted that it enhances their education, and 36% stated it improves their mood.

Interestingly, 73% of those aged 50 and older believe it is crucial to actively engage with new technology. Furthermore, 54% feel that this engagement has positively influenced their memory. Among the respondents, 34% claimed that screen time has helped maintain their mental sharpness.

Activities Supporting Cognitive Health

When asked about their routines for supporting cognitive health, older adults reported a variety of activities. The survey indicated that:

– 67% engage in puzzles or games
– 59% dedicate time to reading
– 47% stay updated on current events
– 45% watch TV shows and movies
– 45% take a multivitamin
– 36% try new activities
– 35% learn about new topics, including trends and technology
– 34% utilize technology
– 26% take supplements for brain support

Gabriele emphasized the importance of these habits, stating, “Older adults already have a wide toolkit of everyday habits to support their brain health— from puzzles and reading to staying curious and connected.”

The survey also found that nearly 45% of adults over 50 include a multivitamin in their daily routine, reinforcing the notion that this demographic is not merely passive consumers of content. Instead, they are actively crafting routines to enhance their cognitive function.

As screen time evolves from a simple pastime to a tool for connection and education, older adults are proving that their engagement with technology can be beneficial for their cognitive health, demonstrating that “screen time” can also equate to “brain time.”