silver surfer

An adult, generally 50 years of age or older, who frequently surfs the Web and spends time online ("silver" refers to the color of their hair). Unlike neophytes, silver surfers are considered netizens, experienced users of the Net. The phrase silver surfer is commonly heard in the U.K., but applies to midlife adults (generally those in their 40s, 50s and 60s), and seniors (age 70 and over) everywhere.

By 2005, close to 108 million people will be over the age of 45 (which comprises 40 percent of the population).

Silver surfers:
• Account for 70 percent of the U.S. net worth, controlling $9 trillion
• Inherit over $12 trillion from their parents -- the largest wealth transfer in history
• Control 80 percent of the personal financial assets
• Represent 50 percent of U.S. discretionary spending
• Own about 50 percent of all credit cards

There are several online communities dedicated to silver surfers, as listed in our links section below.