Many social media professionals have noted the “greying” of social media as more and more senior join popular networks like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In fact, people 74 and older are the fastest growing demographic among social networks. There are currently over 39 million people 65 and older on the top social media platforms. This alone shows just how important it is for seniors to embrace social media as a way to stay connected, learn new things, and stay engaged in pop culture.
With isolation a big concern for many seniors, especially those who live alone, social media offers a wonderful way to stay in touch. Find everyone you know, from high school friends to your nieces and nephews, and send them both public and private messages to keep one another updated on your everyday lives. Scan in old photos and tag friends, remembering fun times from years past. Hear about events around town and get connected with your neighbors in a whole new way.
This is what social media lets everyone accomplish, regardless of age, but for seniors these features can be eye-opening and world-expanding after growing up in a less digital era. Social media doesn’t require software to install and is often simple to use, a big relief for those who are nervous about their technical skills. Seniors who learned their way around a computer on the job or through volunteer work or taught themselves will enjoy this new way to stay more in touch than simple e-mails allow.
Whether you live alone or in a retirement community, whether you live close to family or far away, social media is a wonderful tool to feel closer to your loved ones, make new friends, and discover new interests. You can share news articles, videos, what you were reading, recipes, trip photos, shopping deals and more. By getting social media savvy, you can enrich so many parts of your life, at any age!