How Seniors Became the New ‘Screenagers’
It’s not just tweens and teens who are glued to their phones these days. A report by the CBC says seniors are the new “screenagers.”
And they’re not just buying them; research shows that seniors are using smartphones much more than ever before. Pew Research Center, a think-tank based in Washington, DC, found that social media use in the 65-plus demographic has grown from 11 percent in 2010 to about 50 percent today.
The increased screentime might not be all bad. The article says social media usage and video chat apps (i.e., FaceTime) can keep seniors connected with friends and family and help combat loneliness, which is common among older adults. Additionally, digital engagement programs with online learning, puzzles, and games stimulate cognitive activity.
As with the younger generations, it’s easy to become addicted. Remember — it’s important to unplug and engage in the real world.
Seniors’ personal and financial well-being are equally important. The Seniors Trust is committed to helping older Americans through the passage of the Social Security Expansion Act. It will give retirees an immediate benefits increase of about $200 a month, a fair annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), increased minimum benefits, and ensure the long-term solvency of the Social Security program.
