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As someone over 50 and a senior living expert at Fairwood Retirement Village and Assisted Living, I’ve seen how social media is becoming an essential tool for older adults. Whether it’s connecting with family members, staying informed, or finding new ways to be entertained, social media platforms offer a world of possibilities for people in their later years. Gone are the days when these platforms were only for younger generations. Now, older adults are embracing social media for its many benefits.
For me, and for many others, social media has become a vital tool for building new relationships and more. Let’s explore how social media is enriching the lives of people over 50, who are engaging with the world around them in ways they never thought possible.
Social Media as a Tool for Connection
One of the most powerful aspects of social media for older adults is its ability to foster connections. Family dynamics often change as we age. Children move away, and it can become more difficult to maintain regular contact. Social media platforms like Facebook have stepped in to fill this gap, providing an easy way for seniors to stay connected with family members and loved ones, no matter the distance.
At Fairwood Retirement Village, while we don’t directly engage with our residents’ social media accounts, we see how their families use our Facebook page to stay in touch with what’s happening at the community. Family members from across the world engage with our posts, and it’s wonderful to see how connected they feel through the simple act of liking, commenting, and sharing our content.
For older adults, platforms like Facebook allow them to stay updated on their grandchildren’s milestones, share photos, and even join groups that align with their interests. I’ve seen many seniors find new friends and even rekindle old friendships through these virtual communities, enhancing their sense of connection and reducing feelings of isolation, so common to this demographic.
Social Media for Lifelong Learning
Learning shouldn’t stop as we age. One of the remarkable things about social media is the way it has made information so accessible. From educational videos on YouTube to insightful discussions on Twitter, older adults are finding new ways to expand their knowledge and stay informed about the world.
For example, platforms like YouTube offer endless opportunities for learning, from tutorials on everything from knitting to gardening to basic tech skills. Many seniors are discovering the joys of lifelong learning through these resources, which can help them stay engaged mentally and emotionally.
One standout example is of my friend Jordan Hunter, a dedicated advocate for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. She has effectively used social media to share up-to-date research, caregiving tips, and wellness information, helping older adults and caregivers navigate the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Through her thoughtful posts, Jordan is making valuable information easily accessible to seniors and their families in the Pacific Northwest.
This kind of online learning—whether it’s about health, hobbies, or personal interests—helps older adults stay mentally sharp and engaged in meaningful conversations.
Entertainment at Your Fingertips
Beyond connection and education, social media provides an endless source of entertainment for older adults. Whether it’s following travel bloggers, watching cooking demonstrations, or enjoying funny videos, there’s something for everyone. Platforms like TikTok, once known only for younger users, have attracted many older adults who like to share their experiences, humor, and life stories.
Instagram also offers rich visual content that appeals to seniors interested in photography, travel, and art. Many older adults enjoy following accounts that share beautiful imagery of places they’ve been or wish to visit, allowing them to experience the world through their screens.
Older adults are also discovering the joy of joining virtual communities where they can share their own experiences, whether through Instagram posts, Facebook groups, or even TikTok videos. These platforms give older adults the opportunity to create and share, not just consume content. It’s a wonderful way for seniors to stay creative, engaged, and entertained.
Navigating Social Media Safely
While social media offers numerous benefits for older adults, it’s important to be aware of potential pitfalls. Scams, phishing attempts, and misinformation can pose real risks to users if not cautious.
For older adults new to social media, it’s crucial to take steps to protect personal information. Simple measures like adjusting privacy settings and being selective about who you accept as friends or followers can help mitigate these risks. Additionally, it’s important to verify the sources of any news or health information shared on social media to avoid spreading or believing misinformation.
For families of seniors, helping them navigate social media safely can be a great way to support their online experience. By educating them on how to avoid common scams and misleading content, we can ensure that older adults enjoy the benefits of social media while staying safe.
As someone who has embraced social media for both personal and professional reasons, I encourage anyone over 50 to explore the benefits of such platforms. You may be surprised by how much they have to offer—from rekindling friendships to discovering new passions, the digital world is full of possibilities for those willing to dive in.
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Sheila Fritts is a senior living expert at Fairwood Retirement Village and Assisted Living and the host of the Love Boise Forever, Love Spokane Forever, and Spokane Senior Podcast. Sheila uses social media to connect with women across the country, empowering them through community and shared experiences.