Tech

AARP report finds 90% of seniors now own smartphones in 2026

Tonya Costoff Medeiros

25 Mar 2026 — 1 min read

Data shows that seniors are embracing smartphones and other smart technology. ©Image Credit: Unsplash / Keith Tanner

It's no longer just the younger generations that are embracing smart technology. AARP reports that around 90% of people ages 50 and older now own a smartphone.

Seniors are realizing the pros of smartphones

Before diving into the details, it has to be said that AARP classifies those 50 years and older as a "senior." Yeah, that's not exactly what most consider a senior, but those are the stats used.

What may have seemed like slow acceptance of smart technology is picking up the speed now. Not only do 90% of seniors now have smartphones, but a majority of them also say they use social media.

Seniors especially like how easy it is to communicate with friends and family with a smartphone, noting that texting is their preferred method of communication.

Smartphones have bridged the age gap

The data from AARP shows that smartphones have helped bridge the gap between younger and older generations. It's a technology that all ages embrace.

The report digs deeper, looking into seniors' thoughts about smart technology in general. About 66% of them say that technology is, for the most part, "helpful."

Digital Skills may still be lacking

What doesn't get as much consensus with seniors is their digital skills. If you've got parents, grandparents, or you're in the 50+ age category, you may relate.

Just because seniors like the technology and consider it useful, doesn't mean they feel confident in using a smartphone. Only 48% of seniors over the age of 80 feel like they have the digital skills needed to work their smartphones.

Sources: BBC, Aging and Health Technology Watch

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