News Archive
August 2005
20 August 2005 – Report Hails Time of the “Silver Surfers”
“Silver surfers” is a phrase now commonly used to refer to adults over 50 years of age who frequently use the Web, and they are the most rapidly growing group of net users in the UK. Many like to use the Web to stay in touch with family and friends, keep up-to-date with news or research information about health and finance. Two thirds of British “silver surfers” are reported to use the Internet for easy access to banking and many shop online.
A recent report from the Future Foundation says that the number of online shoppers aged 55 to 64 is growing and with the online retail market set to grow to £60 billion by 2010, online retailers cannot afford to ignore this trend.
“Websites with small or difficult-to-read text, unclear navigation or advertising focused at a younger age group will suffer unless they adapt to the silver surfing revolution.” The Future Foundation
Clearly, this has implications for Web Designers, many of whom are still failing to integrate accessible design practices into their processes and are failing their clients as a result. By thinking more about the accessibility of your website now, you can be better prepared for the future and make the most of the increasing benefits that an accessible website brings.
Related Links: Report Hails Time of the “Silver Surfers”:
