Think seniors don’t use social media? That’s so 2013.
In 2017, seniors are adopting social platforms for a wide variety of uses well beyond keeping tabs on grandchildren.
A recent study from Michigan State University found that online networking can reduce loneliness in seniors and may even give their health a boost. More than 95 percent of the research participants, who were 68 years old on average, indicated that they were very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with social platforms, and nearly three-quarters said they wouldn’t mind learning even more.
Increasingly, research is challenging the notion that seniors aren’t interested in technology or social media. If you’re not yet using social media, there’s never been a better time to jump in. Here are some tips to get you started.
Keep in Touch with Special People
Although seniors now use social media for a variety of purposes, keeping up with friends and family members still ranks high on the list of preferred online activities. To push the boundary here, consider looking up folks you haven’t talked to in ages and dropping them a note.
Find a Great Deal
These days, online deals keep pace with those found in brick-and-mortar stores, and you can find multiple ways of stretching your dollar on social media. When you follow your favorite brands and businesses, you can get early looks at savings opportunities, new products and more.
Learn Something New
Social media platforms truly are the land of opportunity when it comes to learning. Seniors are using Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and other social media sites to cultivate new hobbies and interests, along with learning about all sorts of topics. You can read books, attend video lectures, join chats, take virtual classes and enjoy many other forms of learning online.
Entertain Yourself
There’s no need to feel bored when you have access to social media. You can peruse articles, blog posts and magazines, chat about politics or bring back memories by watching a movie or TV show from years past. If you enjoy games, you’ll find plenty of opportunities — and opponents from around the world — on social media.
Stay Safe as You Browse
Social media can open up a new world of connections, but it’s also important to proceed cautiously. Be careful about clicking links that arrive in email from social media contacts, as they can be forged efforts to get your personal information. Set strong passwords for all your accounts and be selective about who you accept as friends and connections.
Ready to get started? By getting active on social media, you significantly increase your opportunities for shopping, socializing, learning and entertainment. You also give a gift to younger people by sharing your knowledge and experiences.
