Why your elderly parents are paying more – and how to help them save

Why older adults are paying more – and how to fix it

The shift towards digital-first and app-only services has made life easier for many. From banking and energy to retail and entertainment, consumers who can navigate digital platforms enjoy the best rates, exclusive perks, and seamless experiences. But what happens to those who can’t?

Financial expert Martin Lewis recently highlighted a troubling reality: some of the people paying the highest prices for essential services are older adults who struggle with digital platforms.

At Chatsie, we believe that technology should work for everyone – not just the tech-savvy. If your parent or grandparent finds smartphones confusing, they could be missing out on significant savings and essential services. And that’s a problem worth solving.

The cost of app-only services for seniors

Consider these examples:

• Energy providers like Fuse Energy offer their lowest tariffs exclusively through their app.
• Challenger banks such as Starling and Monzo provide better interest rates and zero foreign transaction fees, but only via smartphone.
• Entertainment services like Ticketmaster offer pre-sale access and discounts to mobile app users.

For younger, tech-savvy users, this is convenient. But for millions of older consumers, these barriers mean missing out on financial savings and essential services.

According to our research:

• 80% of seniors feel frustrated with modern smartphones.
• 84% struggle to fully utilise their features.

That’s why we created Chatsie – a smartphone designed specifically for older adults. With an easy-to-use interface, clear navigation, and built-in support, we help seniors stay connected without the stress of confusing technology.

Helping parents and grandparents navigate the digital world

If you’ve ever tried to set up a smartphone for an ageing parent, you know the challenges: small icons, confusing menus, constant updates. Many older adults develop specific habits around technology, and introducing new apps, requiring multiple logins, or relying on gesture-based navigation can create significant frustration. These difficulties don’t disappear over time – they compound.

But with the right tools and support, seniors can confidently use smartphones to manage their daily lives, access essential services, and stay in touch with family. That’s where Chatsie comes in.

A growing market that retailers can’t ignore

Beyond being a social issue, this is a missed business opportunity. The UK’s over-65 population is projected to reach 16.5 million by 2039, and the global AgeTech market is estimated to be worth £3 trillion. Yet, many retailers are failing to adapt their digital strategies to include this demographic.

Interestingly, our data suggests that technology purchases for ageing parents follow distinct patterns:

• Sons are more likely than daughters to purchase technology for their parents.
• Adult children are actively seeking solutions to help older relatives navigate an increasingly digital world.

This presents a huge opportunity for businesses to rethink their marketing strategies and create solutions that cater to both seniors and their families.

How businesses can bridge the digital divide (and win more customers)

To make digital services accessible to older adults, retailers should consider the following strategies:

1. Recognise adult children as key decision-makers – Many seniors rely on their children to help choose and set up digital products.
2. Create family-friendly product bundles – Offering packages that cater to both generations can increase adoption and customer satisfaction.
3. Improve accessibility in digital interfaces – User-friendly design benefits all customers, not just seniors.
4. Ensure best deals are available across multiple channels – Relying solely on app-exclusive promotions alienates a significant customer base.
5. Offer customer support and digital literacy training – Helping older adults navigate technology increases engagement and loyalty.
6. Include seniors in user testing – Real-world feedback from older consumers ensures that digital services remain accessible.

Why Chatsie is the right solution for seniors

If you’re looking for the best smartphone for an elderly parent, Chatsie is designed for ease, clarity, and confidence. With large buttons, simple navigation, and built-in customer support, it removes the barriers that make modern smartphones difficult for seniors.

We believe technology should empower, not exclude. If your loved one is struggling with a complicated smartphone, it’s time for a better solution. Discover Chatsie today.

The future of digital access: inclusion over exclusivity

Retailers and service providers need to ask themselves: Are we truly innovating if we’re leaving millions behind?

The next frontier in digital transformation isn’t about creating more app-only services – it’s about making them accessible and valuable to everyone, regardless of age or digital literacy.

By prioritising inclusion, businesses can expand their customer base, improve customer satisfaction, and position themselves as industry leaders in a rapidly growing market.

Now is the time to rethink digital access. Because innovation should benefit everyone – not just those who are tech-savvy.

Looking for the best phone for your elderly parent? Chatsie is designed to make technology simple. Find out more today.

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