Senior Networking

Traditional social gatherings, church attendance, meetings, dances and other activities keep many older people active but these activities are often dependent on the availability of transportation.  Socialization is the key for these individuals, and outings give them something to look forward to.  However, many seniors have switched to different modes of communication in order to stay connected to each other as well as to their families.

Based on research the 65-year old of today has been using the Internet at work for more than 12 years.  And seniors older than 65 will be a larger and growing segment of the US Internet culture, increasing from 17.7 million in 2006 to 25.3 million in 2011.

These days more and more seniors are moving into retirement communities and own their own computers.  They are able to communicate through numerous programs.  One way is through the use of Twitter® which we are all fairly familiar with.  Statistics have shown that in the United States 10% of Twitter users are between the ages of 55 and 64.  FACEBOOK® is also being used.  There are also informational sites geared specifically for older adults.  Silver Planet® has a forum and offers its members helpful information on health, money matters, and information for those seniors who want to age in place by providing services and products related to aging at home. Growing Bolder® has great human interest stories and discusses the importance of aging “your way.” 

Additional sites with helpful information and communication-connect capabilities are available, and many of these programs are relatively easy to learn.  You may want to look into them for your family member so they, as well as you can stay connected!