Review of Social Media Technology for the Elderly

Social media has changed the way we interact with the world around us. Social media usage has taken the world by storm in the last few years, and the number of users has grown manifold. It has become a part of our lives, from organizing community gatherings to reconnecting with old friends. Social media has made the world a smaller place and brought generations together on a common platform. Social networks are important companions to support the elderly (those aged 60 years and above). It is important to know how this population group interacts with social media and its potential benefits and challenges. This chapter presents a systematic review of social media and its use by the elderly. It also focuses on the priorities and preferences of using particular social media platforms by the elderly. The younger population mainly uses it, but there has been a significant increase in its use by the elderly over the years. It has also been observed that the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown period has compelled many of the elderly to learn the use of social media platforms to stay connected with family and friends. Those living on their own are increasingly using social media to connect better with the world around them.