Study finds knowledge gap between millennials and over 55s

Researchers have found a knowledge gap between millennials and over 55s, with the older generation said to more likely know how to wire a plug and the number of feet in yard compared to younger people.

A study has found that overs 55s are less likely to use spell check and more likely to know when to use correct grammatical terms, such as ‘who and whom’ and ‘who’s and whose’.

How to change a tyre, write a formal letter and play chess are among the things the younger generation are yet to learn.

“There’s so much we can learn from our older generations, but there’s a real danger that we’re losing valuable life skills and pastimes,” said Joan Elliott, MD at Bupa Care Homes, who commissioned the research.

“Thankfully these things are easy to pass between generations, we just need to find time to start the conversations.”

A poll of 2,000 adults found that 58 per cent of over 55s know how to get stains out of clothes, while 31 per cent of millennials feel they could do the same.

Twice as many older Brits can sew on a button, with half of 25 to 34-year-olds citing they can iron a shirt themselves, compared to 84 per cent of senior citizens.

The research also revealed that three-quarters of people believe that younger Brits don’t have the same level of general knowledge, due to their dependence on the internet.

However, 87 per cent stated that they wished they knew more practical skills, without having to turn to the internet for help.