According to Forbes, influencers over 60 are capturing millions of followers in a stunning demographic shift away from younger creators. There are roughly 60-65 million Americans aged 62+ using social media, with about 15-20% actively creating original content. That translates to 9-12 million senior content creators in the U.S. alone, with people over 50 making up roughly 20% of global social media users. These “granfluencers” represent a fast-growing segment that brands are increasingly targeting, yet tech marketers continue focusing almost exclusively on Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X.
Sponsored content — provided for informational and promotional purposes.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Here’s the thing that really stands out – we’re not talking about grandma occasionally posting cat photos. We’re talking about a legitimate content creation movement. About 45% of U.S. adults 65+ use social platforms, and 73% of those aged 50-64 are active online. When you do the math, you’re looking at what could be 30 million Americans aged 62+ on social media by 2025. And globally? We’re talking about 1.2 billion people over 62 worldwide, with at least 20-30% on social platforms. That’s an enormous audience that tech companies are basically ignoring.
The Tech Industry’s Blind Spot
So why are tech marketers so obsessed with younger demographics? I think it comes down to outdated assumptions about who’s “tech savvy.” The reality is that boomers have been using technology since the personal computer revolution. They were there for the birth of the internet. They’ve adapted through multiple tech paradigm shifts. Yet when you look at creative tools like Canva or AI platforms, the marketing feels like it’s exclusively targeting twenty-somethings.
The irony is that this generation actually has more disposable income and more time to create content than many younger creators who are juggling multiple jobs. They’re not just consuming content – they’re actively creating videos, blogs, and product recommendations. Top elderly influencers are building massive followings by sharing decades of lived experience and genuine perspectives that resonate across generations.
A Massive Untapped Market
Basically, we’re looking at what could be the next gold rush in creator tools. Think about it – this demographic wants to communicate creatively with family, especially grandchildren. They’re eager to learn but often need slightly different onboarding. Where are the dedicated YouTube tutorials showing seniors how to use creation tools? Where are the marketing campaigns that speak to their specific use cases?
As senior influencers continue gaining traction, the companies that figure this out first will have a huge advantage. We’re not talking about dumbing down tools – we’re talking about creating better educational content and marketing that acknowledges this demographic’s specific needs and desires. They want to be creative, they’re willing to learn, and they have the time and resources to really engage with these platforms.
The data from generational research makes it clear – this isn’t a niche trend. With the aging global population, granfluencers represent a sustainable, growing market segment. Tech companies that continue ignoring them are leaving money on the table and missing the chance to serve one of the most engaged creator demographics out there.
