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.
Keywords: Advantages of social media, Business, Conflict, Digital literacy, Elderly, Events, Facebook, Health issues, Online marketing, Online medical help, Online shopping, Preference of social media, Social interaction, Social networking sites, Social networking use, Social media, Senior citizens, The loneliness of elderly, Use of mobile by elderly people, WhatsApp.
