Social media can be a positive connection to the outside world for seniors. It’s becoming increasingly popular for older adults to hop onto social media platforms to connect with their friends and family.
In fact, around 75% of those aged 75 years or older are using technology almost every single day and seniors who use social media spend on average about 12 hours per week on the online platforms. On top of this, 71% of seniors believe technology helps them to be more independent. Although, seniors can still find it difficult to maneuver the workings of social media.
Seniors Struggles with Technology
It can be an uphill battle for seniors to get used to the constant changing world of technology. Social media is designed for those with quick wit, good eyesight, and a strong ability to read. Seniors can be slower in these things making technology more difficult to manage.
Reasons why seniors struggle with technology:
- Big gap in technology
- Lack of perceived benefit or need
- Negative feelings about social media
- Fear of the unknown
- Fear about Internet safety
- Computer anxiety
So What Are the Benefits of Social Media?
The benefits of social media for seniors can outweigh the challenges. One of the largest positive factors is the physical and mental health benefits.
Other advantages are:
Stay in Contact with Family and Friends
Families are way more spread out nowadays, living in different cities, states, or countries. Now with social media it’s easier than ever to keep in touch with your family and friends.
Meet New People
Whether it’s connecting with old friends or discovering a Facebook group of like-minded individuals sharing your knitting enthusiasm, getting on social media can create new ways to make friends.
Social media is a great way to help seniors who don’t necessarily have family or friends around. For seniors, 62% of individuals say that social media decreases isolation emotions.
Learn New Things
One of life’s greatest things is learning something new, and social media certainly helps with this. Learning a new skill can be as easy as hopping on a Facebook page.
There are social media accounts devoted solely to teaching individuals about nearly every subject you can think of, from scientific breakthroughs to history and current events. Simply scroll through your Facebook feed, with every click you will discover that you are learning new things.
Don’t Let Age Stop You
As far as technology is concerned, age should never be an obstacle. Keeping up with the ever-changing world of technology and social media is difficult. There are some things that definitely aren’t happy about the internet world, but the advantages of being active on social media far outweigh the negatives.
Age should not be a obstacle to anything in life. Often seniors who have embraced technology and social media never look back, acknowledging the internet world’s significance and embracing all it has to give. Join the fun if you haven’t already!
The Victorian Assisted Living and Retirement Community
The Victorian is an assisted living and retirement community that makes living independently, while at the same time feeling safe and secure, a reality. We strive to provide the best quality of life for all residents including those suffering from loneliness and depression.
We offer a comprehensive activity program that includes both physical and social activities to encourage emotional well-being. Our staff is trained to assist those with depression. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, contact The Victorian today to learn more about our services or tour our community.
