There are many reasons seniors can benefit from getting online and connected via social media. Although it’s often stereotyped that seniors aren’t tech savvy that simply doesn’t have to be the case. Many retirees now have computer skills they learned on the job or from family members, and the internet grows simpler to use every day. However, the benefits of getting online can far outweigh any learning curve.
As families live further apart and retirees move to different locals, it’s a wonderful way to stay in touch. In addition to community involvement and making new friends at a senior living community, staying online can be an additional way to keep lifelong friendships going strong, and stay involved in the day to day lives of loved ones all over the world.
The best place to begin is often with networks that have many members and offer a variety of features, like Facebook. One of the reasons that Facebook is the most popular social media platform is because it allows you to share status updates, photos, videos, and comment on your friends’ posts. It also lets you organize your friends and control your privacy with different groups. People of all ages are on Facebook, making it a great place to stay in touch with everyone from your college roommate to your granddaughters.
Social networks are also a great place to learn new things, whether it’s links to articles you haven’t read before and might find interesting, funny videos, or the latest trends and memes. Facebook has an events section that can let you know about interesting happenings in your city, such as concerts, gallery openings, festivals, wine tastings, poetry readings, and more.
Oftentimes businesses and organizations update Facebook more frequently and in more detail than their websites, so you might miss out on something fun or interesting if you aren’t tuned in to social media. You might even win free tickets, a giftbasket, or other exciting prizes in one of the many contests and giveaways that businesses host on Facebook.
As a friend, family member, or neighbor to help show you the ropes if you’re unsure about how to get started on social media. Though it may take time to get comfortable, that in itself is a great learning experience, and can be a fun way to spend time with someone. Stay in touch, stay connected, and get involved, all through social media!
