Social Media & Older Adults

Social media can be an incredible way for older adults to stay connected with family, follow community updates, share memories, and feel less alone — but it can also feel overwhelming, confusing, or unsafe without the right guidance. This page explains how seniors can use social media confidently and safely with simple, practical tips based on publicly available information.

Why social media matters for older adults

When used in a calm and intentional way, social media helps seniors:

• stay in touch with children and grandchildren
• see photos, family updates, and special moments
• connect with church groups or neighborhood communities
• stay aware of local events and safety alerts
• share memories or participate in hobbies
• feel less isolated, especially if mobility or health is changing

The goal is connection, not overwhelm — and seniors can control exactly what they see and who they interact with.

Making social media simple, calm, and enjoyable

Seniors often stop using social media because the feed becomes loud, chaotic, or confusing. Here are simple ways to make it peaceful:

• Unfollow pages or people that cause stress or confusion.
• Mark close family as “favorites” to always see their updates.
• Join only a few meaningful groups (church, local community, hobbies).
• Limit notifications — most platforms let you turn almost all of them off.
• Use larger text settings and simplified layouts where available.

Safety and privacy for older adults

Most risks on social media come from strangers, not family. Seniors can avoid most issues by using a few simple habits:

• Never respond to messages requesting money, gift cards, or personal information.
• Be cautious of friend requests from people you don’t recognize — especially duplicates of people you already know.
• Do not click links in messages unless they come from someone you trust.
• Use privacy settings so only friends can see your posts.
• Set up two-factor authentication for account protection.
• Know that screenshots, photos, and text can be edited or faked online.

These are educational tips only — seniors always maintain full control of their accounts. Maisage never accesses passwords or private messages.

Understanding what you see online

Social media blends personal updates, advertisements, opinions, and sometimes misleading content. Seniors can stay grounded with simple “pause and check” habits:

• Look at where the post came from — is it a real family member or an unknown page?
• Avoid sharing posts unless you know exactly who created them.
• Remember that ads may appear disguised as posts.
• If something seems alarming or too surprising, check with a trusted family member.

Setting up apps and devices

Many older adults want to connect online but feel unsure how to start. Maisage can guide you through:

• installing social media apps you choose
• adjusting font size and accessibility settings
• setting up simple video calling tools with family
• turning off overwhelming pop-ups and notifications
• understanding how to use messaging safely

You always stay in control — Maisage does not access your passwords or accounts.

Helping families stay connected (without feeling invasive)

Some seniors appreciate gentle connection tools that help loved ones stay aware of daily routines without using cameras or constant check-ins. These can include:

• shared family calendars for appointments
• daily “I’m okay” check-in messages
• movement reminders (drinking water, stretching, medications)
• simple wearable safety devices
• private family group chats

Technology should support independence — not replace it.