Silver surfing: Tips to help older people get online

It might sound a bit crazy, but you probably know someone who has never used the internet.

Two thirds of UK adults surf the web every day, but 5.4 million Brits over the age of 65 have never ever logged on.

That's the finding of a new campaign launched by Age UK - formerly Age Concern - called iTea and Biscuits Week, which aims to offer easy-to-use advice to get older people online.

Running until Sunday, the event aims to help older people learn not just about the internet and computers, but also newer and easier ways for them to get online such as tablets and smartphones.

[Related: 10 Cyber Security Mistakes We All Make]

David Mortimer, Head of Digital Inclusion at Age UK, said: "We're calling on anyone who knows how to use technology to pass on their knowledge of the internet, smartphones, tablets or digital cameras to an older person. There's no need to be a technology guru, just basic knowledge could really make a difference to someone's life."

It's never too "old" to learn either, as was proved a few years ago by internet sensation Ivy Bean, when she joined social network Facebook aged 102 and then went on to master micro-blogging site Twitter.

It's easy to learn too as venues up and down the country already run schemes to help the so-called silver surfer generation enjoy the benefits of an online connected world.

You can find your nearest iTea and Biscuits event here but other projects such as Digital Unite, Go On, UK Online Centres  and the University of the Third Age list sessions all year round as well as providing online tuition on the basics of the internet and technology as well as advice for those who wish to support others to learn.

Subsidised or free computers are also available to seniors through groups including the Microsoft-backed Get Online @ Home. Those receiving certain benefits, can buy a basic refurbished desktop PC for just £99 or a laptop for £169. Through TalkTalk, they Get Online @ Home also offer cheap broadband deals. Other places to look for recycled equipment include PCXUK.

Francis Beckett, of the University of the Third Age, explains most of its groups offer computer courses for beginners and an online version will start next year for those who cannot get out of the house.

Technology for Seniors - Top Tips

Shop around for a good broadband deal
If you want to find the best broadband deal, then http://www.simplifydigital.co.uk/ is a good place to start. It will allow you to compare and understand the best offers in your area.

Choose a mobile phone that makes things simple
If you're looking for a simple to use mobile phone, Doro specialise in handsets for seniors with large screens for the visually impaired or amplified speakers for those with hearing problems. It also has an easy-to-understand smartphone and a special app for Android tablets called Doro Experience that can simplify many common tasks such as messaging.

Find advice before diving in
The BBC's WebWise page is the perfect starting point for internet and computer lessons on topics such as email and internet security.

Make sure your PC is set up correctly
All computer operating systems and many websites offer accessibility features, everything from being able to enlarge text to having the words read aloud. You can find out more about those built into Windows 7 and all of Apple products.

Find friends online
Signing up to social networks such as Facebook and Twitter is simple and quick. By creating an account, you can reconnect with old friends and family members you've not spoken to in years (as long as you want to). If you live alone, it can provide an outlet to stay in touch and instantly communicate with others in the same situation.

Make cheap calls
Online services such as Skype are perfect for making cheap or even free long distance calls to relatives and friends. You may also be able to see them through a video chat if you both have a webcam attached to your computer.

If all else fails, ask for help
Never be afraid to ask for advice. If you don't know how to do something online, neighbours, friends or family may be willing to spare five minutes to show you. You can also find explanations and details on the common computing terms here.