Facebook may have started out as a website dedicated to college students, but over the past several years its user demographics have greatly expanded and the site has blossomed into a valuable social resource for senior citizens. Since socialization can boost emotional and mental wellbeing, it’s important for your senior loved one to embrace this type of technology to stay in touch with family and friends. The staff at Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of in-home care in Kitchener, has put together a list of some of the benefits your loved one can gain from using Facebook.
Keeping Old Friendships Strong
Facebook can help older generations reconnect with their peers. Your loved one can seek out his or her old high school buddies and potentially rekindle old friendships. This also gives your loved one an opportunity to leave the house and socialize with someone familiar from his or her past. While socialization is beneficial for everyone, it offers a special opportunity for seniors to reminisce.
Never Missing a Moment
Sometimes family members move far away and seniors don’t get to see them very often. Through Facebook, your loved one is able to see pictures and videos of his or her children and grandchildren just by signing in and checking the activity feed. Because of this, your loved one gets to experience moments he or she might have otherwise missed out on.
Staying Connected with Family
Not only is your loved one able to see pictures of family members, but he or she can talk to family as well. Facebook has an easy-to-use messaging system that enables the elderly to keep in touch with family. Depending on your loved one’s preference, he or she can send and receive messages or make free video calls with distant family members.
Getting Up to the Minute News
Through Facebook, your loved one can stay up to date on current events he or she finds relevant. Facebook’s sharing feature makes it easy for seniors to find news articles, and they can also “like” their favorite news sources and have articles show up on their newsfeed. Staying current and aware with the news provides seniors with information to share with their friends.
Though using Facebook is a great way to stay in touch with family in other cities and states, regular in-person socialization is also important for maintaining emotional and mental health. If your loved one needs social stimulation, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our live-in and part-time caregivers in Kitchener are available 24/7 for companionship, and can also assist with a wide variety of daily tasks, such as exercise, cooking, and grooming. For more information on our senior care services, please call one of our friendly Care Managers at (519) 954-2111 to schedule a complimentary consultation.