Why Older Adults Should Be on Social Media
Social media has become an essential part of staying informed, connected, and engaged for many of us. While younger generations are typically more active online, seniors are quickly embracing technology and signing up for popular social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
5 Benefits of Social Media for Seniors
As it turns out, social media can have enormous benefits for older adults, including reducing their risk of depression. Here are 5 reasons you should encourage your senior loved one to join the social media world.
Strengthen Cognitive Function
Studies show that learning a new skill helps keep our minds sharp as we age. Engaging in technology supports cognitive health for seniors because they’re utilizing problem solving, critical thinking, and mental agility as they navigate various platforms.
Stay Connected to Loved Ones
Social media has the ability to keep seniors connected to friends and family members both near and far. This is particularly helpful for older adults who lack mobility and don’t have the ability to travel to visit their family members. They can share photos and life updates, as well as send messages to loved ones, making these long distance relationships easier to manage.
Engage in Interests
Your senior family member can join groups online that align with their interests, such as knitting, gardening, or crafting. These platforms give them an opportunity to participate in conversations, learn new skills, and share their own ideas about the subject matter. Even better, they’re able to make new friends who enjoy the same past times as them, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Boost Emotional Well Being
In addition to helping seniors feel less alone, there are aspects of social media that are uplifting to the spirit, like funny videos and other positive content. Seeing these cheerful messages boosts their mood and over emotional well being, giving them something to look forward to on a daily basis.
Provide Access to Information
Many seniors watch the nightly news, but they could still be missing out on current events and community news. By following the social media pages of local businesses and government agencies, your senior loved one can stay up-to-date on developments that directly affect them, like road closures, restaurant openings, and local events.
Visiting Angels Can Help Seniors Navigate Technology
Learning new technology can feel confusing at times. At Visiting Angels Rockford, we’re here to support seniors navigate social media and other tech through our in-home personal care services. Our caregivers will happily provide your senior loved one with patient instruction of digital tools, allowing them to stay better connected to loved ones, as well as the world around them.
If you’re interested in learning more about our flexible care options, we would love to chat. Reach us through our online contact form or call us at 815-977-3452. We look forward to hearing from you!