Top 5 tips teen boomers learned – and what they learned in return

THE top five tech tips young people taught boomers have been revealed, and the tricks they learned in return.

The most important things that young adults teach older generations are how to use WhatsApp, how to scan a QR code, how to set up a Zoom call, which apps are good to download and how to use a tablet.

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The research was commissioned by Smart Energy GB, which is working with former All Saints singer Melanie Blatt and her mother Helene, who recently appeared on hit TV show Race Across the World, helping each other find their way across land and sea . .

The pair now help people understand how the transfer of knowledge between generations can be mutually beneficial.

A survey of 2,000 adults found that 89 percent of 18-24 year olds have shared tips with older people.

Other helpful tips provided when needed include how to use an air fryer, the best ways to stay energy efficient, and how to use mobile banking.

But the transfer of knowledge works both ways: 42 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds also claim to learn tips and tricks from older people.

The over-65s have shared advice including how to be respectful, drain the radiator and use correct grammar.

Identifying plants and flowers, creating a family recipe and money-saving tips are also among the advice shared by the older generation.

Melanie said: “Learning from the older generation is one of the most important things to progress and grow as a person.

“You're supposed to learn from the past and their wisdom.
“Especially with mothers and daughters there will always be something like: you know best.

“But then you become a mother and suddenly everything your mother ever told you that you were probably scared of when you were young starts to make sense.

“If I have a technical problem, I literally ask everyone around me: my mother, my daughter.

“She is my number one for technical support because everyone knows more than me – but even I think a smart meter display is simple and easy to use.”

The survey also found that 42 percent struggle to keep up with new technology as they get older.

One in ten older people are not confident using new technology – smart watches and video games are the things they are most insecure about.

But 42 percent say they are more aware of modern technology if it means they can participate in conversations with younger friends or family members.

And 94 percent of people over 65 agree that you are never too old to learn something new.

55 percent feel confident using smartphones and three in ten (29 percent) have mastered using a smart meter and display in their home in the past five years.

On the other hand, 53 percent believe that spending time with older relatives or friends makes them wiser, according to OnePoll statistics.

Victoria Bacon, director of Smart Energy GB, said: “Being able to give and take advice from friends and family is a really important way to learn – especially if it helps make life easier on a day-to-day basis.

“Requesting and using a smart meter is a good example of this and very simple, even if you do not have confidence in the use of more modern technology.

“Smart meters are installed by your energy supplier at no extra cost and only measure how much energy you have used. They work just like a traditional meter, but take away the hassle of recording and sending meter readings yourself.”