If you’re a senior and looking to dip your feet into the world of social media, you should know that it isn’t just for teenagers and influencers. In fact, it’s a great way for seniors to stay connected with the world around them. Seniors can keep in touch with family, make new friends, and even explore hobbies.
Yet, if you’re new to social media, it might seem a little overwhelming at first, which is perfectly natural. After all, you grew up writing traditional letters and using your traditional telephone. The razzle dazzle and high tech nature of social media can seem like a lot. Fear not—Some essential tips to help you navigate the world of social media.
Start Small
With so many options to choose from, from Facebook, to Instagram, to Twitter, it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of the unknown. Instead of trying to master them all at once, pick one to start with. Facebook is a great Place to start because it’s user-friendly and widely used by people of all ages— yes even people over the age of 70 and even 80! Once you’re comfortable with the Facebook format, you can move on to other platforms at your own pace.
Keep Your Information Private
One of the biggest mistakes that seniors tend to make when hopping on the social media train is sharing too much too quickly. Privacy is important when using social media. Take some time to review your privacy settings so that only people you trust can see your posts and personal details. You want to avoid sharing sensitive information like your address, phone number, or financial details online. When in doubt, if it feels like you’re giving out too much information, You probably are.
Connect with Family and Friends
One of the best parts of social media is staying in touch with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to do a name search for people from your past or your family members. Send friend requests or follow requests and enjoy sharing updates, photos, and messages. Remember, social media is all about sharing and viewing, so make sure that you find a healthy balance between the two.
Be Cautious with Links and Messages
Unfortunately, just like with everything in life, there is a dark underbelly to social media. Not everything you see on social media is true, and sadly, scams do exist. Be wary of messages from strangers, and don’t click on suspicious links promising things like free prizes or asking for personal information. When in doubt, ignore or block unfamiliar accounts. The last thing you want is for someone to hack your account and get a hold of your personal information.
Don’t Forget to Have Fun
Social media isn’t just about staying connected—it’s also a great way to learn and have fun! Follow different pages about your favorite hobbies or sports teams, join groups that interest you, and enjoy watching videos or reading articles on subjects that interest you. The more you have fun, the more enjoyable the experience will be— don’t take it too seriously!
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