Many associate social media sites with young people, assuming older adults wouldn't be interested in them. Yet, they're also popular with seniors and can help them in a few unique ways. As a caregiver, though, you may worry about the pitfalls accompanying online use. With the following guide, you can eliminate concerns and teach them how to experience social media properly.

How Can Social Media Benefit Seniors?

Online Connection

For seniors, especially those with mobility issues, keeping track of friends and family online is often safer and easier than leaving the house. It also helps them stay connected to the happenings of loved ones that don't live locally. As a result, social media sites help them avoid feeling isolated or lonely. This benefit is significant for aging loved ones that live alone, as they have a higher risk of experiencing depression and anxiety.

Access to Shops

Sometimes, seniors can have trouble getting what they need — whether due to bad weather or being homebound. Even if they have a caregiver that runs errands for them, they can still miss the act of shopping. Luckily, social media makes it easier for older adults to enjoy this hobby. When following the feeds of their favorite shops, they get alerted to online deals that help save them money. They also don't have to worry about leaving home to purchase products, thanks to delivery services. 

How Can They Safely Use It?

Unfortunately, older adults are easy targets for internet scams. As a preventative measure, set strict privacy settings for your senior loved one's social media pages. Explain the situations they can experience online that need addressing, such as getting messages from unknown users or suspicious ads. If such problems develop, they should alert you so you can tweak their settings.

Many seniors also have trouble with passwords, often using phrases that are either too simple or difficult. They can also write them down and misplace them, increasing the risk of others discovering them. Avoid these issues by helping your loved one create passwords and showing them how to use online manager tools so they can save the phrases digitally.

Another way caregivers can help seniors remain safe online is by explaining the risks of social media. Warn them against giving out personal or geographical information. This approach ensures they can protect themselves from burglars or identity thieves looking for easy targets.

Along with practicing safe social media use, your older loved one can age in place comfortably with the assistance of COMPASS Homecare in Anchorage, AK. Since 1980, they have provided quality caregivers to seniors throughout the area. From assisting in household chores to grooming, they can help older adults maintain their independence. To learn more about their in-home care services, visit the website or call (907) 276-6960 today.