New Ways to Connect Seniors to Social Media

Social media is practically a staple of everyday life for many Americans of all ages. However, seniors can struggle with connecting on social media or learning how to navigate these systems in the first place. Family members, close friends, and caregivers can help, but there’s more than one way to be social in this day and age. 

Benefits of Social Media for Seniors

Seniors in particular can benefit from social media in several ways, including the following: 

• Reduced risk of isolation and loneliness

• Additional opportunities to create friendships 

• Inspiration to complete goals

• Encouragement and empathy 

• Better quality of life 

Social media apps can also help seniors accomplish various tasks, from sharing their knowledge to finding people of various backgrounds who are passionate about similar interests. Video-based platforms (such as YouTube) can also help seniors learn more about the world, different cultures, and practically anything else you can think of. 

6 New Ways to Connect Seniors to Social Media

Seniors can connect to social media in several ways, from online forums and video chats to dating, games, and job searches. Which social media apps is your aging loved one active on? 

1. Televeda

This innovative system allows senior centers to host virtual spaces for classes and events. Users don’t have to create a username or password. Televeda also offers happy hours where users can show up and chat in a free-form fashion. 

2. Marco Polo

Although Marco Polo isn’t technically a social media app, it lets you video chat with friends and loved ones. A combination of FaceTime and your favorite messaging platform, Marco Polo allows you to communicate with your family members and friends asynchronously. 

3. Readeo

Reading a story to your grandchildren can make bedtime even more pleasant. Readeo is an app that makes virtual storytime possible. As you read the book, you can see each other and discuss what’s happening.  

4. ThirdAGE

Explicitly targeted at Baby Boomer-age women, ThirdAGE combines health and fitness with educational videos. Several articles and videos also focus on family. Senior women can use ThirdAGE to learn more about their health concerns and hear stories from other women who might be going through the same things. 

5. AARP

AARP has always supported seniors, but its video series can help seniors with various issues they may encounter. Some resources require an AARP membership, but with so many benefits, it’s often well worth the cost. Plus, AARP also offers advice on a myriad of subjects, not all of them 65-and-over-specific. 

6. SilverSneakers

SilverSneakers focuses on healthy aging and supporting seniors in their fitness journeys. Classes include on-demand videos to watch or live sessions to attend. Peruse through articles and investigate which health plans partner with SilverSneakers. 

Build Your Social Connections with Right at Home Salem 

Connecting via social media is more common these days than it’s ever been. Right at Home Salem caregivers enjoy connecting seniors with other resources via social media or in person. In fact, we’ve put together several guides on approaching aging in place. If you’d like to learn more about senior home care services and maintaining your independence as you age, contact us for a free consultation. Our care coordinators look forward to speaking with you!