A third of over-74s have never been on the internet

Among 75-89 year olds, access to digital technology remains limited: only 60% use the internet, with women being even less connected than men.

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Only 60% of seniors aged 75 to 89 access the internet, compared to 96% of people aged 16 to 74. Among seniors, men (69%) are significantly more connected than women (52%), while the gap is minimal in other age groups.

Internet: limited access for older people

In 2024, a Statbel survey on household digital usage reveals that a third of 75-89 year olds have never used the internet. Among them, 5% have not accessed it for more than three months, highlighting a significant digital divide among older people.

Specific uses for seniors

For connected seniors, digital activities are varied: 46% manage their finances online, 34% use videoconferencing, 25% favor instant messaging, and 19% explore social networks. However, only 16% practice e-commerce, far from the 66% of 16-74 year olds.

General trends: e-commerce and connected objects

E-commerce, although stable among the youngest (66%), shows a drop in high spending: 11% of consumers spent more than €1,000 in the last quarter, compared to 14% the previous year. At the same time, the adoption of connected objects is progressing strongly. Between 2020 and 2024, the use of energy management devices increased from 10% to 18%, while home security equipment is used by 17% of households. Virtual assistants equip 12% of households.