If you market to adults 50+, you know that tech use isn’t just for younger generations anymore. AARP’s latest research (PDF, 16KB) reveals the key 2026 tech trends you need to know. According to the research, adults ages 50 and older are deeply embedded in digital life, which has big implications for understanding and reaching this audience.
Ownership and daily use: Tech is everywhere
A decade ago, owning a smartphone was unique among older adults; today it’s the norm. About 9 in 10 adults ages 50+ now own smartphones, up 35% since 2016. Apps and digital services are woven into daily routines, with people using about 14 digital services and 10 apps in a 3-month period spanning everything from navigation to entertainment.
This shift means traditional assumptions about technology use among older adults are outdated. Daily tech interaction isn’t occasional or sporadic — it’s consistent, practical and habitual.
Adapted from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB)
55+/senior living tip:
Highlight tech-enabled services and support on your website and in marketing materials to reflect the digital habits of today’s 50+ adults.
Adapted from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB)
55+/senior living tip:
Highlight tech-enabled services and support on your website and in marketing materials to reflect the digital habits of today’s 50+ adults.
Communication has changed
Texting now tops email as the preferred communication method among 50+ adults. It’s quick, familiar and fits into their broader use of digital devices.
Social media use is widespread (about 9 in 10 older adults use social platforms). While Facebook remains the most used platform, usage may have plateaued at 72% (the same as last year’s report). What’s increasing most in usage: YouTube (up 3%), WhatsApp (up 3%) and TikTok (up 2%).
Data from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB) | Number at right shows year-over-year change since 2024 report.
55+/senior living tip:
Ask prospects for their preferences when filling out forms and offer a texting option alongside email. Reach prospects on social channels such as Facebook and YouTube.
Data from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB) | Number at right shows year-over-year change since 2024 report.
55+/senior living tip:
Ask prospects for their preferences when filling out forms and offer a texting option alongside email. Reach prospects on social channels such as Facebook and YouTube.
55+/senior living tip:
Want to reach prospects on streaming video? Amazon’s Prime Video and Netflix have the largest market share among this audience, says AARP.
Tech for daily life, health and independence
Digital services have grown far beyond entertainment or social connection. Adults 50+ are using apps and devices for:
- Shopping and financial tasks like mobile banking and digital payments
- Health and fitness tracking through wearable tech
- Streaming video and music on tablets and smart TVs
- Navigation and maps for travel and mobility
Apps that address real-world tasks — from tracking prescriptions to monitoring activity — are gaining traction because they help older adults manage everyday life more easily.
55+/senior living tip:
Want to reach prospects on streaming video? Amazon’s Prime Video and Netflix have the largest market share among this audience, says AARP.
Tech for daily life, health and independence
Digital services have grown far beyond entertainment or social connection. Adults 50+ are using apps and devices for:
- Shopping and financial tasks like mobile banking and digital payments
- Health and fitness tracking through wearable tech
- Streaming video and music on tablets and smart TVs
- Navigation and maps for travel and mobility
Apps that address real-world tasks — from tracking prescriptions to monitoring activity — are gaining traction because they help older adults manage everyday life more easily.
Artificial intelligence: Growing curiosity and cautious optimism
Interest in AI tools among older adults is rising quickly. According to the AARP report, AI usage nearly doubled from 2024 to 2025, with about 30% of older adults reporting they’ve interacted with an AI platform or app.
Voice personal assistant and health-focused AI tools — such as those that support health monitoring or provide guidance on wellness questions — are among the most appealing categories. However, concerns about data privacy and security continue to slow adoption of new tech.
Adapted from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB)
55+/senior living tip:
Offer workshops or resources on safe AI use and digital security to foster confidence and trust among prospects and residents.
Artificial intelligence: Growing curiosity and cautious optimism
Interest in AI tools among older adults is rising quickly. According to the AARP report, AI usage nearly doubled from 2024 to 2025, with about 30% of older adults reporting they’ve interacted with an AI platform or app.
Voice personal assistant and health-focused AI tools — such as those that support health monitoring or provide guidance on wellness questions — are among the most appealing categories. However, concerns about data privacy and security continue to slow adoption of new tech.
Adapted from 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus (PDF, 16KB)
55+/senior living tip:
Offer workshops or resources on safe AI use and digital security to foster confidence and trust among prospects and residents.
55+/senior living tip:
Provide clear, simple tech support and training that meets older adults where they are.
Barriers to adoption: What still holds older adults back
Despite high tech engagement, older adults still face barriers. Top concerns include:
- Data privacy and security worries — the No. 1 barrier to adoption
- Awareness and perceived value of new tech
- Understanding how to set up and use devices or apps
These challenges are real opportunities for marketers and community staff to make technology feel accessible rather than intimidating.
2026 tech trends learning: Tech isn’t just a tool
Two-thirds of 50+ adults agree technology enriches life and helps with daily tasks and aging.
That means tech isn’t a luxury or add-on — it’s becoming essential to independence, connection and quality of life. For 55+ and senior living communities, understanding these 2026 tech trends among 50+ adults can help you:
- Communicate in ways that feel natural
- Support prospects and residents with tools that improve daily life
- Design programs that meet expectations
Technology has shifted from novelty to necessity, and the communities that embrace this change will be better positioned to serve today’s older adults.