It's a new day and in addition to young people using social media platforms at a high rate, senior citizens and older adults are also increasingly finding joy and connection online. My mom, who is in her early seventies, is a perfect example of this exciting shift. She's discovering the many ways the internet can help her stay social, informed and in the know about things to do in our community and beyond. I feel like in many ways access to the internet for her and her peers has benefited their lives tremendously for the better.
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram enable older adults to stay connected with family and friends, share life updates, and see the lives of those they care about. Whether it's video calls with grandchildren, sharing photos, or even joining group chats, these digital interactions can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and prolong life.
The internet is filled with information and entertainment, perfect for older adults looking to explore new hobbies or delve into past passions in this stage of their life. As an internet wellness advocate I work with local senior living facilities, individuals and groups to teach workshops on internet safety and how to use social media in a positive way. Many of my clients have joined virtual book clubs, gardening forums, social groups to fitness classes. This not only keeps the mind engaged but also opens up a world of new experiences right from the comfort of home.
With all the cool things that the the internet enables us all to do it is crucial to make sure the older adults in our lives are staying safe while navigating the internet landscape. Here are a few tips to help:
Beware of Scams: It's important to educate them about common online scams, such as phishing emails or fraudulent calls. Remind them never to share personal information, like social security numbers or bank details, with strangers online.
Strong Passwords: Encourage them to use strong, unique passwords for their online accounts. A password manager can be a helpful tool to keep track of these.
Privacy Settings: Assist them in adjusting privacy settings on social media platforms to protect their personal information. This includes controlling who can see their posts and how much of their profile is visible to the public.
Privacy Settings: Assist them in adjusting privacy settings on social media platforms to protect their personal information. This includes controlling who can see their posts and how much of their profile is visible to the public.
Keep Personal Information Private: Make sure they avoid sharing sensitive personal information like their home address, financial details, or full name early in the conversation. Tell them to use the platform's messaging system rather than giving out your phone number or email address.
Be Cautious with Photos: Its important to educate them on being mindful of the photos they share and to avoid pictures that could reveal too much about your location or personal life.
Watch for Red Flags: Teach them to be aware of common scams and red flags, such as someone professing love too quickly, asking for money, or providing inconsistent stories. Encourage them to trust their instincts and don’t hesitate to block or report suspicious behavior.
Secure Devices: Ensure their devices are equipped with up-to-date security software and advise them to keep their operating systems and apps updated.
It's a wonderful thing seeing the older people in our lives embrace the internet, offering them new ways to connect, learn, and enjoy life. By ensuring they stay safe online and encouraging them to explore, we can help them make the most of this digital age. Let's celebrate and support our loved ones as we all work to live in this ever-changing digital world.
Ebony Bagley - Internet Wellness Advocate, Book Me: You can check out my internet wellness service here!
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