social networking and the older generation

Social Networking and the Older Generation

Although young adults still dominate the world of social networking, a new trend has started to emerge. The older generation are now starting to use social networking more then ever before. 22% of adults aged 50 and over used social networks last year with that now rising to nearly 42%. By comparison, the 18-29 age bands have grown by just 13%. There are several social networks specifically targeted for the older generation. These include sites such as Eon and Egeneration. Facebook is also used by the older generation.

Social networking certainly has benefits for the older generation, with Skype certainly a huge motivator for talking with grandparents. But other factors have also shown social networking to help the older generation. The sense of isolation can be lifted by the use of these social networks; finding companions who share interests through posts and discussion boards, which can help stop dementia. Limited mobility is not an obstacle with social networks, as well as people who have hearing problems in old age as the internet offers many ways of communication. Many Social networking sites offer discussion boards and groups focused on an area such as health for example, where the older generation can have a support group without needing to leave the home. Social networks can certainly aid the older generation as one third of people over 75 live alone. Social networking systems(skype)are useful when relatives are spread around different areas of the UK.

This is shown by the use of MyWay, a social networking site designed for seniors. Seniors used this website to post photos, share stories and make new friends. Residents actively wrote new stories regularly on the website, even though one senior had never used a computer before. However, under-30’s now are starting to feel uncomfortable with this trend. Young people regularly think being friends with an older person is social networking sites is creepy, because the younger generation feel they are intruding into what used to be their technological area. The younger generation like to hide certain areas of their life behind the social networking sites, such as drunk nights out, but would be worried if their parents could view these photos. These stats below show how the older generation are getting to grips with social networking.

From April 2009 to May 2010, users aged 50-64 grew by 88%. In the same time period, ages 65 and over grew from 13 to 26%. Finally 26% of internet user aged 65 and over regularly use social networking sites. By reviewing these stats, how do you feel about the older generation using social networks? Would you feel uncomfortable if your parents wanted to add you on Facebook? Do you feel uncomfortable about the older generation using social networking in general?

References used:-

http://homecaretwincities.com/from-lydia/social-networking-offers-many-benefits-for-seniors

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/02/health/02face.html

http://www.idoinspire.com/blog/bid/41610/Older-Generations-are-Inspired-to-use-Social-Media-Too

http://www.news.com.au/technology/youngsters-not-happy-oldies-going-online/story-e6frfro0-1111115423764

http://www.techi.com/2010/08/old-people-finally-getting-hip-to-social-networks/

http://slymarketing.com/your-grandma-just-poked-you-on-facebook-now-what