Italy’s aging population is reshaping the economy, and new data shows that older adults are far more digitally engaged than stereotypes suggest. According to research from the Politecnico di Milano, nearly 25% of the population is now over 65, highlighting how central the so-called “silver economy” has become to the country’s future.
Digital adoption among Italians over 55 is already widespread. About 71% use social media, while 59% regularly communicate through messaging apps like WhatsApp. Online search is also common, with 53% of seniors using the internet to find information, and 43% managing email independently. Even more telling, 35% shop online on their own and an additional 8% do so with help from family or friends.
