Social media offers an exciting avenue for healthy aging by fostering connections with family and friends across the globe.
With a plethora of social media apps to explore but we’d like to focus on a handful because of their user-friendly experience, ability to connect with friends and family, and ability to learn and explore new topics:
- YouTube
- Quora
- Goodreads
- TikTok
8 Engaging Social Media Apps
There’s a plethora of social media apps for individuals to explore, but we’d like to focus on a handful.
These eight carefully curated social media apps allow individuals to share their lives, explore new interests, and foster and maintain connections through a user-friendly experience.
YouTube
This popular social media platform allows users to watch, upload, and share videos on any topic. Individuals can access tutorials, documentaries, and entertainment content that suits their interests.
From cooking classes to travel vlogs, YouTube offers endless possibilities for exploration.
Navigating YouTube is simple. Users can search for specific videos or channels, subscribe to content creators they enjoy, and even create playlists of their favorite videos. This makes it easy for individuals to tailor their experience and confirm they’re getting the most out of their time on the platform.
If you’re interested in learning new skills, YouTube provides thousands of how-to videos and educational content. Users can find step-by-step guides on everything from gardening to photography, making it a valuable tool for lifelong learning and personal growth.
This is the social media platform that started it all. Facebook is a versatile social media platform where users can connect with friends and family, share updates, and join interest-based groups.
Users can create personal profiles, post photos, comment on friends’ updates, and engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones, no matter where they are in the world.
A key feature of Facebook is its ability to create group connections. People can join groups dedicated to specific interests or hobbies, where they can share experiences, exchange tips, and make new friends.
We recognize that some individuals may prefer to keep their Facebook circle limited to friends and family. This is why users can manually adjust their privacy settings to maintain control over their personal information and manage who can see their profile and posts.
By selecting “Friends” or “Only Me” instead of “Public,” individuals can restrict access to their updates and photos.
Facebook also offers event features that help individuals stay informed about upcoming activities and gatherings in their local community.
WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows users to send texts, images, videos, and voice messages, and make video calls.
It is an ideal platform for individuals who want to maintain close communication with family and friends (regardless of what smartphone someone has) without the complexity of other social networks.
Users simply create an account linked to their phone number, after which they can begin chatting with contacts who also use the app.
One of the most popular social media apps is Instagram, a photo and video-sharing app that allows users to document their lives and interests through visual content.
Older adults can discover inspiration and creativity by following diverse accounts that align with their passions, such as travel, art, or gardening while staying connected with friends and family.
With Instagram, users can take pictures or videos, apply filters, and share them on their profiles. Friends and family can engage by liking, commenting, or sharing the content, promoting community and interaction.
One of the app’s most popular features is Instagram stories. For those who enjoy sharing little snippets of their day, Instagram allows users to upload a photo to their profile which is only visible for 24 hours, creating digital memories.
Quora
Quora is a question-and-answer platform where users can ask questions, receive answers, and share expertise on a wide range of topics.
Individuals can engage with the platform to satisfy their curiosity, expand their knowledge, or contribute insights from their life experiences. Individuals can engage in thought-provoking discussions, answer questions posed by others, and connect with like-minded individuals.
For those who enjoy lifelong learning, Quora offers access to a wealth of information spanning countless subjects.
Goodreads
Goodreads is a social network for book enthusiasts, where users can discover new titles, share reviews, and connect with fellow readers.
Those who love reading can use Goodreads to track their reading lists, explore recommendations, and engage in literary discussions.
Upon creating an account, users can build virtual bookshelves, rate books they’ve read, and write reviews. Goodreads also offers personalized recommendations based on reading history and preferences, making it easy for users to find new books that align with their tastes.
Additionally, Goodreads hosts virtual book clubs and discussion groups, allowing individuals to connect with other readers and participate in conversations about their favorite books.
TikTok
TikTok is a short-form video app that allows users to create and share entertaining content. Users can explore a wide array of videos, from dance challenges to cooking tips and fashion inspiration, or even create their own content to showcase their talents and interests.
The app features a “For You” page, which curates content based on users’ preferences, making it easy for individuals to discover videos that resonate with them.
For seniors who relish creativity and humor, TikTok offers a platform to express themselves and connect with others who share their passions.
Pinterest is a visual discovery platform where users can find and save ideas for various projects and interests.
Users can create virtual boards to organize inspiration for hobbies such as cooking, knitting, gardening, painting, and fashion.
Users can search for specific topics or browse curated collections, saving pins that appeal to them. This allows individuals to compile a personalized library of ideas and projects, ready for when they need motivation or guidance.
For those looking to explore new activities or refine existing hobbies, Pinterest serves as a valuable resource that helps spark creativity.
Book a Tour
By staying connected with an online community, older adults can discover new hobbies, stay updated on the latest news, and participate in communities that share their interests.
One of the greatest ways older adults can maintain and foster new social connections is through community living. Connect with our team at The Villages at the River Club to book a tour of our independent living community.
