New research shows that reverse mortgage lenders who aren’t using utilizing the web and social media are missing a growing opportunity to reach seniors.

According to a new report from AARP, more than 25% of Americans 50 years and older stay connected using sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.  Additionally, almost half of those surveyed between the ages of 50 and 64 said they’re extremely or very comfortable using the Internet.

“The latest data tells us that more and more, social networking is becoming a part of everyday life for Americans 50+, and boomers in particular,” said AARP Chief Communications Officer Kevin Donnellan. “AARP must deliver the same reliable information and first-rate resources we always have, but in a more interactive way, when and where AARP.org users and online community members want it.”

The survey consisted of a telephone survey of 1,863 adults which addressed a range of technology questions, even about the new iPad from Apple.  According to AARP, 83% of respondents had heard of the device but only 2% actually owned one.  One-tenth of those aware of the iPad plan or want to purchase one mainly for general web browsing, reading news, newspapers or magazines, photo sharing, and reading books.

The web continues to be a challenge for most reverse mortgage lenders, more about that in a follow up next week.  Read a copy of the full report here.