Many older adults living in senior living communities are using social media. It allows them to stay in contact with family, reconnect with old friends, and share what they love. If you are among the members of the older population using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media platforms, keep these etiquette and security tips in mind to enjoy your time on the web.

4 Ways for Seniors to Use Social Media Successfully

1. Adjust Privacy Settings

Go into the “privacy” tab of each social media account to ensure the settings are preferable. It’s generally best to make your Facebook profile and other accounts private unless they are exclusively for business, so you aren’t sharing your senior living posts with the world. If you aren’t sure how to adjust your settings, ask a knowledgeable family member or friend.

2. Avoid Talking to People You Don’t Know

Don’t accept friend requests from individuals you don’t know. The accounts could be spam or the work of hackers. If you think you may know the person, review your mutual friends or ask family members if they know who it is. Remember, you can delete whoever you want or leave requests pending.

3. Gauge Whether Younger Family Members Want to Connect Online

Avoid making friend requests to younger members of your family or friends’ children since they may not want you to see everything they post online. Wait for them to add you or bring up your new accounts in conversation to see if they seem interested in connecting online. If you do connect, ask about tagging them in family photos, videos, or at assorted locations before posting. They may be friends with their employers online or otherwise don’t want to be tagged.

4. Wait to Click on Links From “Friends”

Don’t automatically click on links sent to your social media messaging centers, even if they appear to be from friends and family. Accounts get hacked every day, so exercise caution by waiting and asking if the link is, in fact, from the sender. If a message seems suspicious, it probably is. Mark it as spam to help social media platforms improve their security. 

Abbington Assisted Living is proud to provide senior care throughout Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, Chillicothe, and Coshocton, OH. Abbington senior living communities are one-story buildings that are designed with comfort and security in mind, offering comprehensive nursing care services in a compassionate, comfortable, and cost-effective manner. Please visit our website or call us directly at (614) 451-4575 in Columbus, (614) 577-0822 in Pickerington, (614) 789-9868 in Powell, (740) 773-4630 in Chillicothe, or (740) 623-4600 in Coshocton.