Recent studies indicate that people over 50 years old are among the fastest-growing demographics on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Google+. But why do so many older adults prefer using these sites? These social networks provide older adults with a range of benefits that help them stay connected with their loved ones and increase their social circle while keeping up with current events and staying abreast of new technologies and services. This article will help you understand the benefits of social media for older adults, and why it can be such an effective tool in reaching out to others and staying connected with people in your life.
Keep in Touch
Keeping in touch with friends and family is vital as we age, and social media makes it easy to do that. Whether through Facebook or Twitter, older adults can share pictures and stories and connect with family and friends around their interests and passions. Technology allows you to stay in touch without having to talk on the phone, go over to someone’s house or meet up in person. You can interact via your computer or smartphone without ever even leaving your home—in some cases; you don’t even have to leave your chair!
Stay up to Date
Many older adults keep up with current events and news through social media. With a wealth of news sources at their fingertips, it’s a far easier way to get a big picture of what’s going on in your city or state than watching TV or reading papers. Plus, Facebook is a great way to stay in touch with old friends and acquaintances that you might not otherwise have been able to connect with! It’s also easy for younger relatives and friends to look you up on Facebook if they want to stay in touch while also being respectful of your privacy.
Entertainment
Imagine that you are an older adult with limited mobility. You may have already resigned yourself to spending your golden years cooped up in your house, watching television, and reading newspapers, because you think there’s nothing to do outside of your home. A whole new world opens up to people who cannot leave their homes for a variety of reasons, thanks to social media. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, or even Instagram, these tools give family members over 65 something fun to do when they can’t get out. They can also find out what’s happening in their neighborhood this way.
Social Media Can Be Educational
Technology has made it possible for people to take their education with them wherever they go. Thanks to apps like Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms, those over 65 can access information about anything and everything right from their phone or computer. Not only is it easier than ever to access information, but there’s also a ton of helpful information available online that doesn’t exist elsewhere. By taking advantage of social media’s educational opportunities, adults over 65 can quickly increase their knowledge base without leaving home.
