Bermuda has one of the highest rates of computer ownership in the world, with 85 percent of households having access to the Internet.

Ninety percent of homes also have a cell phone, however, seniors are lagging behind in the information technology revolution.

A Research.bm survey commissioned by the Department of E-Commerce found that in the majority of homes without a computer, 52 percent have occupants over the age of 55.

The majority of non-cell phone owners were also classed in this age group.

Terry Lister, Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and E-Commerce, announced the findings in the House of Assembly on Friday, as part of the Bermuda Technology Benchmark Study.

He said Government would now try to widen the reach of information technology to senior citizens.

"This survey sets a benchmark against which we can compare future surveys to assess the change in competency and attitudes toward technology in Bermuda during the next several years.

"The survey shows that in some areas, such as computer ownership or cell phone ownership, we are amongst the highest in the world," said Mr. Lister.

"However, it is clear that the older generation, those 55 years and older, are the least technology savvy in Bermuda.

"While this is not surprising, as ICT is very much a phenomenon of the younger generation, we must ensure that no one in Bermuda is left behind as technology increasingly affects the lives of everyone, everywhere, everyday.

"This benchmark study will be a useful tool for Government to focus resources on the people and communities most in need of investment, so that everyone can participate in the information and communications revolution that makes our world smaller by the day."

The survey measured residents' competence and attitudes toward technology, and will be repeated over a three-year period to focus Government attention on areas in need of development. The study examined uptake of computers, the Internet, cell phone and mobile devices, plus other technology such as iPods/MP3 players, faxes and scanners.

Residents were also asked to rate their level of expertise.

This showed that more than half — 54 percent, were classified as having moderate or high competence, with the highest level those using e-mail, surfing the net, making cell phone calls and using voicemail.

The survey revealed 87 percent of households own a computer, and 38 percent plan to buy one within the next six months.

Residents spend an average 23 hours a week using a computer, 50 percent of that time at home. Nearly half of the Island's households own a digital camera, with more than half owning a game console, portable DVD player, or iPod/MP3 player.

Mr. Lister reported that seven in ten residents felt that "Bermuda needs to increase its technology standards in order to compete in the global economy."

He added: "About three in ten Bermudians are a bit frightened of new technology and about one quarter generally dislikes change.

"However, only ten percent feel that they are too old to learn about new technologies."