Over-60s have a flexible approach to life and embrace the opportunity to be spontaneous, new research reveals.

New findings challenge the stereotype that older people can be stuck in their ways, with 85% saying they have a flexible approach to life.

And over half (54%) insist that the opportunity to be spontaneous is a benefit of this flexible outlook. 

Despite well over half (62%) of the younger generations surveyed saying that they think over-60s are inflexible when it comes to new technology, the vast majority of over-60s (89%) say that new developments in tech over the last fifty years have helped improve their lives. 

(Image: PA)

The survey of 2,000 Brits of all ages found that popular inventions with over-60s include colour TV (86%), mobile phones (84%), washing machines (83%) and the internet (82%). More than three in four (76%) say online banking has also benefitted them, as they prefer it to visiting their local branch. 

However, all generations were in agreement that technology is developing and improving faster than they can keep up, with over half (56%) of over-60s saying that they get tech support from their children or grandchildren. 

Angela Rippon, broadcaster and journalist, explained: “The assumption that over-60s are inflexible should be challenged – we have embraced and benefitted from significant changes over the years. Many new technologies, such as the internet and mobile phones, have vastly improved our lives. 

“Smart meters are another good example. They do away with the manual readings and energy cost confusion of analogue meters, and could also help you to get rewarded for being flexible with your energy use. 

“For example, if you are open to changing the time you do the laundry or use the dishwasher, a smart meter could enable you to access more flexible schemes or tariffs. These can reward you for shifting usage to times that energy is at its cheapest and most plentiful, something that’s good for you and for the environment.”