Just a few years ago, a digital divide existed between the generations. That line is long gone. Today, internet usage is consistent among all age groups, and everyone is doing the same things online: checking e-mail, paying bills, reading the latest news and weather, getting directions – and visiting social networking sites.
See Also: Step-by-Step instructions: Social Media, Facebook and Twitter
According to Pew Research, 47% of internet users age 50-64 use social media, an 88% increase since 2009. The growth rate for users age 65+ is even higher – 100% since last year.
The Phenomenon of Facebook
The granddaddy of all social media sites, Facebook, has a network of more than 500 million active members, with an estimated 32.5 million users age 50 and older in the U.S. alone, which represents the site’s fastest growing demographic.
Facebook users can share photos, videos, links, and thoughts with their friends, by posting this information on their profile page. The site also enables users to play games, join groups, review books, and “like” pages of their favorite people, places, and organizations – including AARP Montana. We update the AARP Montana Facebook page almost daily with the latest news, events, and activities for Montana members and their families.
As the 2013 legislative session approaches, there will be legislative updates on Facebook and Twitter. Recently, AARP Montana members on Facebook were able to read about receiving help during tax season and how to access resources for care givers.
We're also talking about:
- Volunteering in the community
- Fun community activities
- Recipes
- You’ve Earned A Say – the future of Social Security and Medicare
- Consumer protection tips and trends
Find AARP MT on Facebook and click the “Like” button to stay in the know about these topics and more.
How to get started
If you’re not already a Facebook user, set up a free profile on Facebook at www.facebook.com by adding both contact information and personal details about your life. Facebook uses this information to suggest connections for you, so the more you include could help you reconnect with your best friend from elementary school, or friends from your hometown.
Check out AARP’s tips on social networking dos and don’ts.
You can choose to share as much or as little about yourself as you like.
More Web Resources
In addition to the AARP MT Facebook page, we are continually posting Twitter updates on Montana news and information for 50+ residents. If you like to “tweet”, follow AARP Montana on Twitter.
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