Some 83pc of people ages 13-75 consider going online to be a “helpful” form of communication among family members, a new research report suggests.
The report AARP and Microsoft Corp have released, Connecting Generations, examines how people of all ages are using online communication and social networking to enhance their family relationships.
The report’s findings indicate that online communication is bridging the generation gap, what with 30pc of grandparents of teens/young adults agreeing that connecting online has helped them better understand their teen/young adult grandchildren, and 29pc of teens/young adults saying the same about their grandparents.
Teenagers agree the computer increases both the quantity (70pc) and quality (67pc) of their communication with family members living far away.
“Technology is now playing an increasingly vital role in helping the 50+ population communicate and stay connected to their children, ageing parents and other family members,” said Jody Holtzman, senior vice-president, AARP Thought Leadership.
“By enhancing communication across all generations, technology is improving the quality of life for people of all ages.”
