When you’re so used to reading novels, magazines and a whole plethora of printed text, it can be hard to transfer to online methods of reading. In a generation of internet-savvy young people who are now entering the working world, it’s now becoming increasingly more relevant for the other generations to pick up a tablet and explore the realms of online content.

Trying your hand at navigating electronic devices and the internet doesn’t mean that you have to completely deviate from your favourite novels. The internet is, in fact, extremely useful for improving breadth of knowledge and making everyday tasks more convenient.

Save time

In today’s fast-paced world, we can only be all too grateful for innovative technologies that save time on the more mundane tasks, ultimately leaving more time to indulge in the things we enjoy. Queuing to buy tickets for events, or spending your Saturday afternoon walking through supermarket aisles are no longer the only options for us; with online shopping websites, users can purchase event tickets and complete an entire food shop – with the added benefit of arranging delivery – all from the comfort of their own home. For older individuals, this can be particularly useful when walking long distances becomes more of a struggle.

Online encyclopedia

Google, one of the internet’s most popular search engines, is widely regarded as an online encyclopedia of information. Any burning question that you have will, more likely than not, be answered by a Google search. Google isn’t just great for answering your questions; it can be used to discover new social events local to you, or even explore reviews on a restaurant you’ve been thinking about visiting.

A whole catalogue of news articles can be found online, too, that focus on a whole range of topics – from current affairs to important events in history.

Whilst it’s always best to consult your GP if something isn’t right, you can save time initially through visiting the NHS Choices website, which is available for everyone to use (providing they have access to the internet). This can help to provide reassurance, and save valuable time during the initial stages of a GP appointment.

Provides entertainment

Anyone who has access to a device (whether that’s a smartphone, tablet or computer) and the internet can easily watch both live and catch-up TV, or play online games. This way, users can finally watch that box set they’ve had their eye on, or stimulate the mind with an interactive online chess game.

Reduce feelings of loneliness

As a society, we know all too well the issue of loneliness that’s often encountered by the older generation. Online communities and social networks can help to significantly reduce this problem. Whether it’s communicating with friends online or meeting new people through the discovery of local social groups, the internet can really help fulfil our innate need to maintain social connections.

The use of video calling facilities, Skype and FaceTime, also allows individuals to stay in contact with family and friends who live further away, being able to speak to them face-to-face.

Looking after your finances

During retirement, it’s important to make sure that you’re keeping an eye on your accounts and your daily spending habits. As the world is becoming increasingly reliant on technology, many financial applications and sources of information are now more accessible online; so it’s worth staying up-to-date with these changes.

As a generation that grew up without access to the internet, it can be difficult when initially faced with a device. However, it can be helpful to purchase a tablet to begin with, as this is a convenient way of getting started that allows you to be mobile whilst using it. If you can, ask a family member or friend to help you get started.