I often write about the benefits that technology is delivering to our increasing life expectancy. I also suggest that the elderly are too often victimized by their own outdated anticipation; not knowing that they can usually live not only longer, but better. One of the common beliefs based on past experience and wisdom is that the features of technology are focused only on young people. In fact, technology companies are recognizing that senior citizens now manage a huge portion of the disposable income, and they are rushing to meet their wants and dreams.

The 50-and-over-crowd will make up one-third of the population of the United States and will spend more than younger shoppers by approximately $1 trillion in 2010. Most of us will respond by saying, “They are talking about some other senior citizens.” However, we must note that we can still rake in the advantages of this reality if we keep our eyes open for them.

Aging folks should be interested in the rise of a senior technology economy for two good reasons:

1. It will suggest a better quality of life for us. When we look expectantly at our present circumstances, we will see a much different picture for aging than our parents did. For example, the Internet is, largely, free. Optimistic people are likely to use this cheap resource to engage in fun lives.

2. Seniors can earn money longer and easily. Income can be earned working at home by means of personal computers and the Internet. Furthermore, as the population ages, more and more of the business economy is managed by senior citizens.

3. Relationships that have, in the past, relied on transportation or traditional communications can flourish on the Internet. Virtually anything can be instantly shared: photos, e-mail, video and even live interactive video and voice calls!

I am acquainted with a man who retired from a “9 to 5” business when he was 60 years of age. He had been involved in buying and managing a certain kind of specialized equipment over the last 20 years of his career. Immediately upon his “retirement” he was approached by one of the vendors of that type of equipment and offered a very lucrative position selling it, on his own schedule, with a corporate car and all other costs paid. He traveled with his wife (whenever he wanted to) at the vendor’s cost. When he needed to stay home he made use of the telephone and Internet to communicate and do paperwork. Why did that vendor compensate him so well to jump from being a consumer to being a seller? They told him honestly that it was because the majority of the big buying decision-makers for their equipment were his friends, senior citizens or approaching senior citizenship, and they trusted him for that reason.

The possibilities for making money while working in your pajamas are abundant and possibly lucrative. The opportunities are springing up much quicker than we can explore them. We just have to move beyond our outmoded thoughts and expectations about aging and begin surfing!

Author Bio: Morgan Connor is a teacher specializing in aging and using technology to improve quality of life in aging. He also writes about memory enhancement, improved health, and having fun. Visit us to learn more about anti-aging for senior citizens and senior technology. wood porch swings.

Category: Marketing
Keywords: life expectancy,senior technology,aging technology