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Social Media: How Connected Are You?

How Americans 50 and older use technology

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Thanks to technology, we have lots of ways to reach out to others. Do Americans 50 and older use social media and devices differently than younger people?

To find out, AARP Bulletin teamed up with the independent research firm of SSRS on a national poll. Here's what they found.  

Do you use any social media? 

Ages 18-49
50-plus
Yes

 
69% 38%
No

 
31% 62%

                           
Which of the following social media do you use?

Ages 18-49 50-plus
Facebook  
91%
 87%
Google Plus  
11% 7%
LinkedIn  
17% 19%
Twitter  
22% 10%
Other  
46% 42%


How many social media accounts do you have?

Ages 18-49 50-plus
1 or 2  
60% 78%
3 or 4  
23% 14%
5 or more  
17% 5%


What is the main reason you use social media?

Ages 18-49 50-plus
Keep in touch with family/friends  
51% 54%
Keep an eye on kids/grandkids  
2% 8%
Networking for job/job search  
6% 4%
Find old friends  
7% 4%
Keep up with what others are talking about  
12% 9%
Something else  
22% 21%

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