When local governments consider adopting new technology, a common myth often comes up: “Senior citizens aren’t interested in mobile apps or digital notifications.” In reality, older citizens not only use mobile devices, but they also appreciate the convenience, immediacy, and reliability that mobile apps bring—especially when it comes to staying connected with their communities.

Let’s debunk this myth once and for all and explore why mobile apps have become a crucial tool for all age groups, including older adults, in accessing local government services.

Myth #1: “Seniors Aren’t Using Smartphones or Mobile Apps.”

Contrary to popular belief, smartphone adoption among older Americans has surged in recent years. According to the Pew Research Center, smartphone ownership among adults aged 65 and older rose from 13% in 2012 to over 61% in 2021, and the numbers are climbing each year. This increase in adoption aligns with the growing ease of use of mobile apps and interfaces designed specifically to be user-friendly for all age groups.

With so many seniors embracing mobile technology, they’re not only capable of using apps—they’re looking for ways to simplify their lives through digital solutions. The AARP has found that 7 in 10 adults over 50 actively use their smartphones daily, and more than half have expressed interest in using apps to help stay connected to their communities and manage local services.

Takeaway: Seniors aren’t just using smartphones; they’re relying on them. When municipalities provide an accessible, well-designed mobile app, they’re meeting a real demand among older residents.

Myth #2: “Seniors Aren’t Interested in Push Notifications or Alerts.”

A common assumption is that older adults prefer traditional channels like newsletters or direct mail for staying informed. However, studies have shown that timely, relevant digital notifications are highly effective in engaging this demographic. In fact, a survey by Deloitte reports that 61% of adults over 55 appreciate push notifications, especially those that help them stay informed on important issues like emergencies, health alerts, and public safety.

For local governments, push notifications offer a quick and effective way to communicate critical updates—something that’s invaluable to seniors who want to stay informed about the community without having to actively search for information. Notifications on topics like upcoming events, road closures, and public health alerts keep older residents connected and aware of issues that could impact their daily lives.

Takeaway: Push notifications aren’t just for younger audiences; seniors value them for their immediacy and relevance, especially when it comes to important local information.

Myth #3: “Older Residents Prefer Face-to-Face or Paper Communication Over Digital Solutions.”

While older generations may have grown up with traditional forms of communication, they’re now more digitally savvy and appreciate the ease that apps bring to accessing services. With 52% of seniors using apps to help manage daily tasks—from prescription refills to video calling with family—they’ve already embraced the benefits that mobile apps can offer.

Local government apps designed with accessibility and simplicity in mind allow older citizens to complete tasks at their convenience, whether it’s paying a utility bill, submitting a service request, or getting information on local events. Additionally, mobile apps reduce the need for seniors to make trips to city hall or other local offices, giving them the flexibility to manage civic tasks on their own terms.

For example, municipalities that use GOGov’s citizen engagement solutions are finding that residents over 55 engage frequently with push notifications, service request tools, and other app features that help simplify interactions with their local government.

Takeaway: Older residents enjoy the convenience of digital solutions for local government tasks, making mobile apps a valuable tool for engaging this demographic.

Myth #4: “Seniors Struggle with Using Mobile Apps.”

With accessibility features like larger text options, simple navigation, and voice commands, today’s mobile apps are designed with all users in mind, including seniors. The AARP Tech Trends study found that more than half of adults over 50 are confident in their ability to use technology like mobile apps, especially when they offer intuitive design and clear instructions.

Local government apps focused on user experience and simplicity are ideal for older residents. The customization options available in GOGov’s branded municipality apps, for example, allow for user-friendly access that benefits all demographics. Features like large icons, straightforward navigation, and easily accessible emergency information ensure that seniors can navigate apps with ease and confidence.

Takeaway: Well-designed mobile apps can be user-friendly for older residents, helping them stay connected and involved without technical frustration.

Embracing Digital Solutions: Real-World Examples

As municipalities adopt mobile apps for citizen engagement, they’re seeing significant positive impact, especially among senior residents. Here’s how some of our customers, like Marco Island, are leading the way:

• Marco Island, Florida: Marco Island’s “MyMarco” app serves a diverse, growing community, including a large number of retirees who value easy access to important information. Since launching the app, the city has been able to instantly communicate with residents about road closures, emergency alerts, and public safety updates. During hurricane season, the app has proven invaluable by delivering timely, potentially life-saving notifications to residents.
• Real-Time Reporting and Service Requests: Through the “MyMarco” app, residents can directly report issues like blocked pathways or maintenance needs to relevant departments with ease. This feature has significantly reduced call volumes and in-person visits, enabling Marco Island to handle citizen requests efficiently, with detailed tracking and updates—a benefit that has especially resonated with the city’s older population who may prefer quick, straightforward ways to reach local officials.
• Tailored Notifications for All Residents: For Marco Island, the app has enhanced transparency by keeping all citizens, including seniors, informed with targeted push notifications. The app also provides a one-stop resource for community events and city council meeting schedules, empowering older residents to stay involved without relying on less accessible sources, like social media.

These real-world results underscore how local governments can use mobile apps to foster a connected, informed community. Through tools like “MyMarco,” municipalities are enabling all citizens, including seniors, to access crucial information, report issues, and stay engaged—without unnecessary hurdles.

Mobile Apps Are a Must for Engaging All Ages

Mobile technology isn’t just for younger residents. Seniors are increasingly turning to their smartphones for communication, service management, and staying connected to their communities. With a municipality-branded app, local governments can better engage this demographic by providing an easy, efficient way to stay informed and connected.

By embracing mobile apps and digital notifications, local governments can bridge the gap across generations, improve access to services, and foster a stronger, more connected community. And as the digital expectations of seniors continue to grow, now is the time for municipalities to make the leap toward comprehensive, inclusive mobile solutions.

Ready to launch your municipality-branded app? Reach out to us at GOGov to see how our solutions can help you engage residents of all ages and meet the evolving needs of your community. Schedule a demo today.

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