Social media is one of those things that more and more people are getting into, regardless of age. While it may be appealing to younger people, there’s no doubt about it, social media is also great for people over the age of 70. It’s a great way to stay in touch with loved ones, stay up to date with current events, and explore new interests.
However, there can be a learning curve involved over a certain age. It may feel downright overwhelming since many seniors didn’t grow up with technology whatsoever. The great news is that by knowing the right tips ahead of time, you can avoid common issues, and get the most out of your social media experience. Here are some of the best tips for seniors who are looking to get started on social media.
Know Your Platforms
The first step is knowing that not all platforms are created equally. Some may be better suited for other age brackets than others. Facebook is ideal for seniors since the entire concept is that it’s a place to connect with family and friends, join groups, and subscribe to different pages.
Instagram on the other hand, is appealing to a wide variety of ages and is a little more image-based. It’s great for visual content and can be especially useful if you’re looking for content for things like cooking or traveling.
There are also platforms like Pinterest which is the perfect place for crafts and inspiration. Get to know each one and choose the one that is best suited for your particular needs and interests.
Prioritize Privacy
Although social media is definitely a place where sharing is encouraged, it’s critical that you keep your personal information safe. You need to take the right steps to protect your account and ultimately your overall privacy.
You should seriously consider setting your profile to private which means only people on your friends list can view your posts. This is important because sometimes you may not necessarily need the entire world knowing you’re on vacation, or the city that you live in.
Always think twice before sharing your personal information, and never share sensitive details like your Social Security number, or your license plate. It’s always best to err on the side of caution, so keep this in mind when posting.
Additionally, make sure that you choose a strong password. It’s not uncommon for Facebook accounts to be hacked, and used for malicious intentions. Choosing a strong password significantly reduces the chances of your account getting hacked, and someone stealing your identity. Always be wary when it comes to social media, even though it may be a great tool and a lot of fun.
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