Although it is tempting to associate technology and the use of social media with younger individuals, there is another segment of society for which these tools have become important. As senior citizens encounter loss of loved ones, physical debilitations, and a society which changes at break-neck speed, feelings of depression and loneliness are often experienced. However, technology has become more affordable and user friendly, thus, more seniors are turning to social media for companionship, information, and entertainment. While senior citizens face many challenges associated with aging, those who use technology and social media experience a multitude of benefits which include renewed vitality, a greater voice and recognition in society, increased connectivity and involvement, and expanded interaction with family and friends.
As technology advances and becomes increasingly integrated into the daily lives of citizens around the world, the importance of digital literacy is unquestionably linked to societal relevance. Indeed, a disparity exists between those who use electronic means of communication and those who do not. For the purposes of this discussion the concentration will be on equipping elderly citizens with the knowledge of technology, via social media, thus empowering them with information, skills, and interaction which are not hindered by limited mobility. Educators agree that "senior citizenship is turned into a new stage of life, in which idleness symbolizes the practice of new activities, under the label of dynamism" (Adriano, Dante, Johannes, 2012, para. 1). Indeed, it is within the power of society to improve and empower its aging populations. Unlike the younger members of society, seniors came of age in an era which was not dominated by technology, but by machines and manual labor.
Thus, their experiences are quite different and this combined with the effects of aging necessitates attention to providing an environment conducive to older students which allays their fears, provides socialization, and is communicated in an appropriate manner and pace.
A study of projects involving seniors and IT revealed the environment in which introduction and instruction occurred, significantly impacted the success of endeavors related to seniors remaining vital and active in society through social media. The author stated, “…the computer was seen as an important empowerment tool to enable active citizenship along with other activities” (Fuglsang, 2005 pg. 481). For example, seniors who participated in a community based program with an emphasis on merging socialization and instruction were then able to expand upon the initial goals and formulate programs to assist their more infirmed counterparts such as installing personal computer in the homes of immobile individuals. It was argued that equally important to the computer, was the atmosphere in which the instruction occurred. Lessons were conducted in small groups and familiar surroundings, which fostered discourse about opportunities to use these new skills to benefit society. In one location the computers and coffee drinks were made available, adding ambiance and creating the feel of an internet café. (Fuglsang, 2005) Thus, while the seniors acquired a new skill set, they also found renewed vitality and sense of purpose.
Whereas the seniors described in the previous paragraph could be considered active, another study involving residents of nursing homes also produced positive outcomes. Those involved initially expressed high levels of hesitancy and ambivalence when first attempting to use a computer. This was further complicated by a lack of dexterity involving the use of keyboards and peripheral devices. Eventually, the seniors were able to use the devices with almost normal competency. Once the instructors successfully demonstrated the applicability of technology to the lives of these individuals, progress began. The most significant shift seemed to occur within the mental state as reticence gave way to interest, confidence, and improved moods. Observers also noticed that residents displayed a desire for more independence, increased motivation, and interest in special activities. Groves & Slack argued, “The computer's potential for improving one's functional ability and increasing the life satisfaction, that is, the quality of life, is a network of excellent possibilities” (Groves & Slack, 1994 para. 15). Certainly, the flow and access of information by way of computer usage, to individuals with limited mobility serves to promote cognitive functioning and augment a positive outlook.
Yet, it is not just countries and cultures which may be considered mainstream that are affected by academic knowledge and technological advancements. As freedom expands across the globe, the reach of academic knowledge and technology is needed internationally. A recent article in the Romanian Journal for Multidimensional Education states the following about the declining conditions of seniors, “Learning to pro-socially fight stigmatization, marginalization, as well as active integration could help develop sustainable inclusive strategies according to socio-economic and cultural level of society and active quality standards”(Lenta & Cormos, 2014, p. 19). Therefore, it may be asserted that the benefits of technology and academic knowledge would provide a method by which elderly Romanians could retain a measure of dignity and recognition within society. It is incumbent upon global citizens to engage vulnerable populations such as the elderly, in programs which increase their ability to participate in meaningful communicative conditions.
A great disparity of digital literacy exists between the younger and older generations in East-Asian countries. Studies in Hong Kong showed that seniors believed the use of information and communication technology would be beneficial in maintaining relationships and independence. The article noted that, “In addition, they agreed that people would be marginalized and excluded in society if they did not know how to use ICT” (Wong, Chen, Fung, & Law, 2014 p.155). Information technology is transforming the way in which older populations can communicate and their perceptions regarding such matters.
“Senior Student Connect” is program which utilizes the knowledge of senior citizens and the technology skills of students. Swarnkar argues that while many seniors are becoming increasingly isolated due to lack of skills with technology and social media, the younger population and students are struggling with academics. He further asserts that by uniting these two groups the results will be mutually beneficial. He writes, “Technological problems tend to lead to social isolation. This is a rapidly spreading “disease” that leads to emotional, physical, and mental problems such as depression, lack of sleep, accidents, etc.” (Swarnkar, 2014, para. 4). With the help of younger individuals seniors add a vital skill and they are able to impart wisdom and deepen the knowledge base of younger generations, through their life experience.
At the age of 88, LoisBlackwell Witherspoon has experienced a lifetime of memories, joys, and difficulties. This virtual world of connectivity on Facebook has enabled Lois to transform a hobby into a tool by which she and fellow seniors share losses, joys, and impart words of wisdom to younger friends. Currently, Lois has a following in excess of 600 Facebook users. She first began writing stories about her childhood in the town of San Bernardino, CA. These stories grew into a personal account of her grief and loneliness as Alzheimer’s quickly claimed the mind of her husband. Throughout the ordeal reciprocity emerged and soon her followers were sending cards and get-well greetings to her husband. Soon after, Lois’ son suffered a serious onset of Parkinson’s disease. Without the use of social media, particularly FaceTime, his location in the state of Hawaii would have made communication quite difficult. However, she and her son Mike were able to have regular face to face interactions. Again, the followers responded by sending Mike their well wishes and personalized messages. He was astounded by the communal outreach inspired by the Facebook postings of his mother. Lois continued to share and reach out to others via social media throughout these difficulties. In one post from December 2014 she wrote to her followers,
“I truly loved looking at all your posts, etc., on your Timelines and got to see photos of your kids, grandkids, your dogs and cats and to follow you on trips and to see what you eat and hear about your frustrations regarding weather, illnesses and anguishes....and joys with marriages, babies, losing friends and sad times too. THAT, to me, is what FB is all about, Sharing” (Blackwell-Witherspoon, 2014).
Ida Francis, another senior citizen writes back to Lois and shares her appreciation in these words,
“Please keep going for us you have enriched our lives with your stories. You bring such joy and hope to us. I am in such a better place reading your stories. You have so much to offer us. I know your pain and I just know there are so many more people out there that feel the way I do. I learn from you every time you post. I feel so much less lost every time you post” (Blackwell-Witherspoon, 2014).
These writings demonstrate how social media enables seniors to help one another as they navigate this new resource of communication. Additionally, Lois Blackwell-Witherspoon is currently awaiting the publication of her first book which was written at the urging of her followers throughout the United States and abroad.
Seniors who participated in a Danish study found they were able to achieve a greater voice and recognition in society. For example, the following quote is from an individual who used this new found connectivity to affect change in the community by emailing the roads department about a troublesome hole in need of repair. The participant asserted, “I didn’t get a reply to my email, but the hole was done. And that was kind of the beginning of our communication with the municipality” (Fuglsang, 2005, p. 484). Clearly, this immediate connectivity enabled the individual to have a tangible and meaningful effect within their locality. Additionally, connectivity empowers seniors with knowledge regarding medical issues. “Digital democratization of this domain – the public availability of preventive, diagnostic, and curative information – is a serious dislocation of the dominance of doctors over patients” (Reifova & Fiserova, 2012, pg. 6). No longer are they limited by information given to them, but through the use of technology and social media seniors can research health conditions and medications, therefore gaining insight and enabling active participation and partnership in their own medical decisions.
Internet based activities are crucial in helping seniors retain agency over decisions which affect their daily lives. Larsson, Larsson-Lund, & Nilson argue the benefits of internet based activities in the following statement, “This digital gap is of concern as it can place seniors at risk of injustice when it comes to the performance of daily activities (Nilsson & Townsend, 2010), and it can hinder seniors from drawing benefits because of their inability to perform IBAs” ( Larsson, Larsson-Lund, & Nilson, 2014, p. 156). In other words, as society advances toward electronic communication, those who are reliant upon traditional methods may experience limited influence within society. This is especially true for seniors who also experience limited mobility and reduced interaction.
When a correlation to the applicability of senior’s interests and social media was effectively demonstrated, individuals recognized the usefulness of technology in their personal lives. Senior citizens have also found that digital literacy provides a greater ease with which to participate in politics. One participant stated, “I don't think I would be doing what I'm doing today without the computer…” and of those who deride technology she asserted “We need it for moving the country forward. It will all be different in the future…” (Abbey & Hyde, 2009, para. 41). Another senior leads a political party from his laptop, which includes sending electronic newsletters and emails. Although he recognizes that some of his counterparts will not accept technology as a means of exercising their political power, he argues that without information and communication technologies, “We wouldn't be able to cope if we didn't have them now" (Abbey & Hyde, 2009, para.43). Those who have recognized the efficiency of technology are harnessing the power of social capital in society.
This social capital can be exercised in ways other than the political realm. As the life span of adults increases due to medical advancements, the world is presented with additional challenges and opportunities associated with this phenomenon. Indeed the population is changing at a time when technology is dominating even the most basic activities of daily life. Data shows that “Due to a decline in fertility and an increase in longevity, it is estimated that “in less than 10 years, older people will outnumber children for the first time in history” (Merriam & Kee, 2014, para. 3). It is further asserted that community well-being is reliant upon a pattern of “lifelong learning for older adults” (Merriam & Kee, 2014, p. 129). Certainly, incorporating programs which encourage active citizenship will impact the ways in which the future generations of seniors engage and are able to remain vital contributors to the world. Lifelong learning may include courses for seniors involving integration of social media, hobbies, and volunteerism. Merriam & Kee noted the following:
“And findings directly relevant to community wellbeing were that “forty-two per cent reported an improvement in their ability to stand up and be heard and/or their willingness to take responsibility,” and “twenty-eight per cent reported an increased involvement in social, community and/or voluntary activities as a result of learning” (Merriam & Kee, 2014, p. 136).
By applying the principles of active citizenship to the aging populations, society can positively impact and change to landscape in the immediate future and beyond the next decade. The aged in society will no longer be relegated to a marginalized status, with limited interaction, and isolation as the hallmarks of their last years. Rather, dynamism and connectivity through the use of technology and social media will become the normative for senior citizens.
Businesses are taking notice of the growing demand and sizeable market share which is constituted by senior citizens. ‘‘Corporate interest in an aging population is reflected by Intel Corp. and Acer America providing 100 Pentium PCs to 20 learning centers across the country” (Seals, Clanton, Argawall, Doswell, & Thomas, 2008, p. 1058). New applications and safeguards which center on the interests of seniors are being developed in hopes of capturing this important and lucrative demographic. Scholars argue, “Seniors’ computer usage has attracted wide interest and many companies are now becoming responsive to the growing numbers of seniors on the Internet” (Seals, Clanton, Argawall, Doswell, & Thomas, 2008, p. 1058). In answer to the safety concerns and fear which seniors have associated with identity and financial theft, new applications and safeguards are being developed. These programs which center on the interests of seniors are necessary to capture this important and lucrative demographic while enabling the availability of access to those who may not have the financial means to purchase such implements. This is yet another indication of the growing social capital which seniors are accruing.
Beyond community involvement is the desire and necessity of maintaining familial relationships. In times past, families generally remained closer in proximity. However, in a global and technical world, many find it necessary to relocate in hopes of securing employment. For seniors this separation can be a source of great despair and loneliness. Younger generations have moved away from traditional methods of communication. This often leaves seniors without news of family milestones such as graduations, a grandchild’s first visit from the Tooth Fairy, or birthdays. Those who learn to use social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Skype, or other means are finding the experience to be positive. A video produced by the American Association of Retired Persons features seniors using social media. Those interviewed impart how technology has transformed communication between family and friends. One of the participants exhorts her fellow seniors to take a chance and utilize these methods as she states, “It opens up a whole new world for you. It’s instant gratification” (AARP Washington, 2011). Further, seniors explained how using social media provided immediate access to grandchildren with applications such as Face Time. No longer must they hope and wait for pictures or a letter through traditional methods. Grandparents and grandchildren have authentic, real time experiences even though separated by great distances or inability to travel.
Reciprocity is an important component of social media. Not only can seniors exchange pictures and messages with others, they can participate in virtual gift giving, “likes”, and “pokes”, etc. though sites such as Facebook. These features add dimensions above and beyond those associated with email. In the article entitled, “Flourishing on Facebook: virtue, friendship, and new social media”, Vallor writes,
“Thanks in large part to the recent emergence of popular social networking technologies such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn and many others, online friendship has spread in its reach from relatively homogenous early-adopter populations dominated by technophiles and affluent youth, to remarkably heterogenous networks serving senior citizens, busy parents, and marginalized groups of nearly every description” (Vallor, 2012, p.185).
Indeed, social media has provided an avenue for maintaining and creating relationships despite demographic disparity or geographical separation.
While it may be argued that social media and technological innovations do not cure all of the sociological ailments associated with aging, it certainly may be asserted that these methods serve to empower senior citizens. Those who may have been at risk of marginalization and despair brought on by advanced age and physical limitations are now able to connect, learn, and participate with others. Findings indicate that, “Particularly for older adults with impaired mobility, social networking sites can help them to connect with family members and other active social networking users” (Nef, Ganea, Müri, & Mosimann, 2013, para. 1). Although it may be exchanging photos of grandchildren, reconnecting with old friends, or playing a game of Candy Crush, one thing is certain, social media is not just for kids. Social media helps older adults remain young at heart. Seniors such as Lois Blackwell-Witherspoon have taken control of their respective emotional destinies and encouraged their peers to grasp the opportunities presented in this new era of communication. Whether confined to a wheel chair, hospital bed, assisted living facility, or isolated by lack of transportation or rural location, seniors can remain vital, involved members of society while maintaining and forming relationships across the country and globe.
References
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