Telenor aims to encourage more grandparents to access social networks by producing a guide on what they are and how to use them.
The Norwegian incumbent claims a survey shows the use of social media in the country by people aged over 65 is low, with close to 70% of respondents stating they don’t use the networks. A breakdown of the figures reveals that usage falls as age increases. While 33% of those aged 65 to 70 say they currently use social media, the figure falls to 20% in the 75 to 85 age group, and 33% of people in that age bracket said they don’t know what social media is.
Telenor chief executive, Berit Svendsen, says the telco hopes to educate people on the benefits social networks can offer, such as combating loneliness in the over 65s. “We believe that every elderly person can benefit from socializing online from time to time. By becoming more familiar with social media it can be easier to stay in touch with friends and loved ones, even when it isn’t possible to be physically present.”
The telco’s survey also found that most (65%) over 65s believe the web and social networks have created a generation gap. Svendsen says he hopes Telenor’s user guide will encourage grandchildren to get involved in training their older family members. “If there is anyone who really knows how to socialize on digital platforms, it’s them,” he says.