The number of Canadians 75 and older using the Internet grew from 5 percent in 2000 to 27 percent in 2012. Though there are many reasons for seniors to go online, social media has proven to be one of the most popular and beneficial reasons. Social media has proven to be a fun way for seniors to keep their minds engaged, but it can also provide them with many other important benefits.
Increase Social Engagement
Getting out of the home and socializing is important for a senior’s health. When your loved one spends too much time isolated from the community or family and friends, he or she may become depressed and stressed. However, using social media means your loved one can communicate with other people online without leaving home. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are just a few of the social media websites he or she can use. Even if your loved one is the only person living in the home, interacting on these sites with other users means he or she is never alone.
Save Money
More and more companies are offering coupons to social media users who “like” or “friend” their pages, and coupons are often shared between users on Twitter. This means your loved one can keep his or her brain active while using social media and save money in the process. Since most seniors live on a fixed income, this financial benefit could free up extra money to use on medications, meals, utilities, home care Mississauga, and much more.
Stay Close with Family
Sharing memories through social media is easy to do with digital photos. Your loved one can share videos and photos with family members or friends using Flickr, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media websites, and he or she can receive photos of grandchildren instantly this way, rather than waiting a much longer time through postal mail. Seeing these photos and making new memories can help your loved one remain happy and full of life, reducing his or her risk of stress and anxiety.
Maintain Independence
Your loved one can even communicate with his or her Mississauga caregiver through social media. This allows your loved one to maintain independence, and it can also give you peace of mind knowing he or she is safe while you are away. Using the social media messaging tools and video chat gives your loved one the ability to check in with you and other family members throughout the day, which is especially beneficial for seniors who want to age in place.
Social media can help your loved one stay connected and involved with the outside world, but in-person socialization is also important. If your loved one needs additional companionship and emotional support, turn to Home Care Assistance. Our compassionate caregivers can help seniors with tasks around the house, provide transportation to appointments and social engagements, and offer consistent companionship to prevent isolation and loneliness. We also offer comprehensive Parkinson’s, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Mississauga seniors and their families can rely on. For more information on our elderly care services, call 905-337-1200 today.