MIDVALE, Utah—GetSetUp, a platform providing lifelong learning and discovery for older adults, released its 2024 "Active Aging Report,” showcasing participants’ digital lives and technology uses to manage their health and wellness. Additionally, the report highlights GetSetUp’s efforts to address the challenges faced by older adults, such as limited access to resources, the desire for ongoing learning and health options that work in their schedule.
The 2024 Active Aging Report explores how older adults navigate the digital landscape, overcome health and wellness challenges and enrich their lives. The report draws on data from U.S. active agers who participated in over 5.2 million online activities in 2023, as well as insights from 1,701 surveyed users. The key findings from the report are listed below.
A Strong Desire for Aging-in-Place
With 57.5% of surveyed users living alone and 86.4% preferring to stay at home and age-in-place, the study revealed a need for programs that foster social connections and offer more accessible resources, both online and offline. Additionally, many older adults actively seek tools that support independent living and reduce social isolation, a key social determinant of health.
Emphasis on Holistic Health & Wellness
The report highlights a growing shift towards holistic health among active agers, with 45.9% of surveyed participants engaging in daily physical activities and 27.1% participating in GetSetUp’s mental health programs. These trends illustrate the commitment of older adults to maintaining both physical and mental well-being, which promotes longevity and quality of life.
Digital Literacy & Technological Integration
The study found online classes have become an important resource for older adults to learn and integrate technology into their daily lives. Last year, 863,563 classes were taken on digital literacy topics, such as digital banking, telemedicine and smart device usage. This reflects a movement towards bridging the digital divide, empowering older adults with the skills to navigate an increasingly digital world.
Investing in Financial Security
Many older adults are looking to continue to make additional income post-retirement, with 233,954 class attendances focused on finance and employment. Thus, the need for financial literacy and security is a critical component of health equity among older adults.
Prioritizing Physical Safety & Long-Term Health
Older adults are prioritizing health and wellness online, with fitness and fall prevention classes attracting 738,368 attendances, which represents 13.7% of the overall engagement on the platform. This level of participation reflects a strong commitment among older adults to maintain their physical health.
Barriers to Community Engagement & Resources
Many older adults often face significant barriers to participating in local community activities. Notably, 15% of surveyed users do not participate in community events because such activities aren’t available near them, and 7.2% face mobility limitations that make it difficult to engage in social activities. These findings show a need for accessible, online solutions that bridge the gap and foster social connections.
“Our report shows that older adults today are rewriting the script on aging,” said Lawrence Kosick, co-founder and president of GetSetUp. “They are not just looking to age gracefully but are eager to stay engaged, learn new skills and maintain enriching social connections. At GetSetUp, we are committed to empowering older adults by providing them with the resources, community and opportunities they need to thrive, while also addressing the health disparities they face. Our mission is to ensure every older adult, regardless of background, has access to opportunities that enhance their quality of life.”
The full report can be downloaded here.
