The internet has become a key part of daily life, offering access to information, communication, and services. However, digital accessibility remains a challenge for many, particularly individuals with disabilities. A recent study in the European Union (EU) highlights a significant gap in internet usage between people with severe disabilities, moderate disabilities, and those without disabilities.
Internet Usage Statistics Across Different Disability Levels – Learn More with InfoCons Consumer Protection !
In 2024, statistics revealed notable differences in internet use across varying levels of disability. Among people aged 16 to 74 in the EU:
- 78.2% of individuals with severe disabilities used the internet regularly (defined as at least once a week in the past three months).
- 86% of those with moderate disabilities were regular internet users.
- 93.5% of individuals without disabilities accessed the internet frequently.
These figures illustrate a clear digital divide, with internet usage rates declining as the severity of disability increases.
Read also : Global Recycling Day – InfoCons Consumers Protection Informs You!
Age and Disability: A Dual Barrier to Internet Access – – InfoCons Consumers Protection Keeps You Informed !
Age plays a crucial role in digital engagement, with older populations being less likely to use the internet regularly. Regardless of disability status, individuals aged 55 to 74 had significantly lower rates of internet usage compared to younger demographics.
Internet Usage Among Younger Populations – InfoCons Consumer Protection Informs You !
For individuals aged 16 to 24 years in the EU:
- 87.4% of those with severe disabilities accessed the internet regularly.
- 98.1% of those with moderate disabilities used the internet frequently.
- 98.7% of individuals without disabilities engaged with the internet on a regular basis.
These figures indicate that younger individuals, regardless of disability, are more digitally connected than older populations.
Read also : How the EU Achieved 26% Renewable Energy in Heating & Cooling – InfoCons Consumer Protection Informs You !
Internet Usage Among Older Populations – InfoCons Consumers Protection Keeps You Informed !
In contrast, for individuals aged 55 to 74 years:
- 70.8% of those with severe disabilities used the internet regularly.
- 78.2% of those with moderate disabilities were frequent users.
- 84.3% of individuals without disabilities accessed the internet consistently.
This data suggests that older adults, especially those with severe disabilities, face significant barriers in digital accessibility.
Addressing the Digital Divide – Learn More with InfoCons Consumer Protection !
The discrepancy in internet usage between individuals with and without disabilities raises important questions about accessibility and inclusion. Factors such as limited digital literacy, lack of assistive technologies, and physical barriers contribute to lower engagement among people with disabilities, particularly older adults.
To bridge this digital divide, policymakers and organizations must focus on:
- Enhancing digital literacy programs tailored to individuals with disabilities.
- Improving access to assistive technologies that make internet navigation easier.
- Encouraging age-friendly and disability-inclusive web design to create a more accessible online environment.
Read also : 5 Trends in EU Environmental Jobs Growth – InfoCons Consumer Protection Informs You !
Towards a More Inclusive Digital World – InfoCons Consumers Protection Keeps You Informed !
While internet usage is high among the younger generation, the gap remains significant among older individuals and those with severe disabilities. To ensure equal access to digital resources, governments, tech companies, and advocacy groups must work together to eliminate barriers and promote digital inclusivity. Closing this digital divide will not only improve accessibility but also enhance opportunities for education, employment, and social participation.
Source : Eurostat
InfoCons – European Organization for Consumer Protection and Promotion of Programs and Strategies , a full member of the World Organization Consumers International, founding member of the Federation of Consumer Associations, and member of ANEC .