90% of over-50s using the internet to communicate

The number of over-50s going online seems to be increasing, with 90 per cent using a broadband connection to communicate, potentially using VoIP solutions.

According to the research from Just Retired, many over-50s use email to communicate with friends and family, while 65 per cent regularly use the internet for shopping purposes.

Nancy Johnson, technology and digital inclusion development manager at Age Concern, said internet usage still needs to be improved among the over-65s, but that more widespread education for older people could help.

Ms Johnson said: "Access is important, but the key to getting older people online is making sure education and training is available to demystify online technology and also demonstrate the potential benefits of going digital."

She added that cheaper shopping prices online and the opportunity to communicate easily with family around the world, whether this is through email or VoIP hardware, could encourage more older people.

The number of UK adults with a social networking profile online has risen by nearly ten per cent over the past two years, according to broadband industry regulator Ofcom.