If you’re already a regular web surfer, you’re probably aware that the internet has made shopping, getting the latest news and catching up with family and friends much easier. In fact, some have even discovered that it is one of the best ways to find over 50 life cover. But did you know logging on could also improve your mental fitness?

This was one of the findings of research carried out at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), which studied the ways people aged between 55 and 78 use the web. In particular, scientists looked at how seven days of internet access affected the decision-making capabilities of this age group through a series of tests. It was discovered that using the internet boosted neural activity and may even have a positive effect on cognitive functioning.

“We found that for older people with minimal experience, performing internet searches for even a relatively short period of time can change brain activity patterns and enhance function,” author of the study and professor of psychiatry at UCLA Gary Small said.

If another study published last year is anything to go by, these benefits are being felt by increasing numbers of over 50s. The UK Online Management (UKOM) and Nielsen report showed that 1.9 million people logged on for the first time between May 2009 and June 2010 – and more than half were aged over 50.

Speaking about the study in an interview with Web User, UKOM and Nielsen spokesman Alex Burmaster said that the internet is becoming increasingly important for the older generation for two key reasons. Speaking to Web User, he said: “Firstly, as the internet is now an intrinsic part of daily life for most people, the older age group has become more aware of it, more familiar with it and increasingly confident in its capabilities. Secondly, there are an increasing number of services offered online that specifically target the older age group, which makes the internet increasingly more relevant and useful for them.”

With a whole world of information at your fingertips, it’s no surprise that many people now turn to the internet when searching for things like over 50 life insurance. There are advantages to finding your cover in this way rather than accumulating masses of paperwork or making numerous phone calls to providers for quotes. Apply for ‘Whole of Life Insurance’ cover from Engage Mutual online and you’ll receive a 5 per cent premium discount, along with a free welcome gift (terms and conditions apply).

Please remember that this is not a savings plan and will only pay out when you die. You may pay more in premiums than the plan would pay out on death; this depends on how long premiums are paid for.

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