A Review on the Impact of Social Media Use on the Development of Social Bonds and Access to Information in Elderly Individuals

Abstract

This review aims to investigate the impact of older adults’ use of social media on the development of social ties and access to information. With the increasing use of technological tools today, it is becoming increasingly important for older adults to be involved in social media platforms. Increasing older adults’ use of social media has the potential to reduce social isolation and loneliness by enabling them to establish closer relationships with their social circles. According to the findings of various studies in the literature, social media use increases the frequency of older adults’ communication with family members and friends, which contributes to strengthening family ties and the formation of emotional support networks. In addition, social media platforms can help older adults access up-to-date information quickly and easily, reducing barriers to accessing information. The dissemination of programs to develop older adults’ digital skills can contribute to the increase in quality of life by supporting the effective use of these platforms. These findings reveal that older adults should be encouraged to use social media, digital literacy training should be disseminated, and technological infrastructure should be strengthened.