Did you know? There’s a term for old people who use the internet
The term nods to the silver strands of hair that often come with age.
You may chuckle at the thought, but yes—there’s an actual term for older adults who’ve embraced the digital age. Say hello to the “silver surfer.”
Coined in the late 1990s and gaining popularity in the early 2000s, “silver surfer” is a playful, affectionate label given to older individuals who confidently navigate the web, scroll through social media, and perhaps even do a spot of online shopping. The term nods to the silver strands of hair that often come with age, while cheekily likening the user to a tech-savvy surfer gliding effortlessly across the waves of cyberspace.
Grandma on Facebook, Grandpa googling gardening tips, both discussing their favourite YouTube cooking channel over a cuppa. And this isn’t a rare phenomenon. In the UK alone, over 80% of those aged 65–74 now use the internet regularly, according to the Office for National Statistics. Even those over 75 are catching on, with usage figures steadily rising year on year.
This digital revolution among older generations isn’t just about keeping up with the grandkids, though that’s certainly part of it. It’s also about independence, curiosity, and connection. From managing bank accounts to booking holidays and joining Zoom fitness classes, the internet has become a lifeline—especially post-pandemic, when in-person interactions were limited and digital literacy became more important than ever.
The silver surfer doesn’t always fit the stereotype of someone fumbling with technology. Many are surprisingly savvy, having spent the latter part of their careers adapting to the digital workplace. Others have taken it upon themselves to learn, joining community tech workshops or simply experimenting until it clicks.
But of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Older adults can be more vulnerable to online scams and misinformation, and the digital divide remains real for many. That’s why support and education continue to be key in ensuring everyone, regardless of age, can surf safely.
Don’t be shocked if you see an older relative tapping on a tablet or browsing on their smartphone; they may simply be an experienced silver surfer. Who knows? They might even have better Wi-Fi etiquette than the rest of us.
After all, age is just a number, but being online? That’s a lifestyle.
