SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE ELDERLY

Many might think that social media is the exclusive area of the younger generation. However, grandparents are becoming skilled in social media like Skype and Facebook and liking it.

Overcoming loneliness is that much easier through the internet and social media. As more and more of the population ages and sticks closer to home, the internet as a supportive and educational tool becomes ever more important.

The elderly use these tools to bridge the geographic gap between them and their loved ones far away and as a way to re-connect with friends from a far off time. Studies show that the internet has become an important portal for reducing isolation, loneliness and other depressive symptoms. While teens have moved on from Facebook, the older generation has found that it serves them quite well. Seniors have discovered that Skyping is a great way to bring relatives from faraway destinations right into their living rooms. Also, Twitter has become popular for keying into specific news sections they want to follow.