What Social Media Platforms do Older Adults Use?

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The latest statistics show that the contours of social media use are changing among older adults, showing growing acceptance and comfort.

In this article, I will examine social media use among older adults and find out what social media do older adults use.

We will explore seniors’ favorite social media platforms and discuss the social media trends among the elderly.

What Social Media Platforms do Over 50s Use?

AARP studied the latest tech trends among older adults including what social media do over 50s use.

To stay connected with family and friends, 50+ consumers use multiple forms of communication on daily basis.

The top methods of choice include Text, Email, Social Media platforms, and Video calls.

The increasing social media usage shows growing comfort for older adults. Most of the 50-plus adults use one or more social media platforms.

Facebook and YouTube remain the clear favorites among older adults.

The interesting findings show that Instagram and TikTok, most commonly associated with youth, are becoming popular among seniors.

Instagram usage increased from 24% to 28% while TikTok usage increased from 10% to 15% in one year, among 50+ folks.

Pinterest usage declined from 25% in 2021 to 20% in 2022.

Here are some other interesting stats from the AARP survey.

• Most of 50 plus (88%) use one or more social media platforms
• 43% of adults 50 years and older use social media daily
• Facebook (71%) and YouTube (51%) remain the clear winners among older adults
• While Instagram and TikTok usage has increased significantly in 2022, older adults’ interest in Pinterest has dropped 5%

Overall, the share of 50+ social media users has grown. Only 12% of older adults did not use social media in 2022, down from 15% in 2021.

What Social Media Platforms are Seniors’ Favorites

When we examine what social media do older adults, Facebook and YouTube stand out. Here are some of the Facebook stats.

• 55 years and older adults are 22.2% of total U.S. Facebook users
• In total, 282 million Facebook users are 55 years or older, making them 12.7% of total Facebook users

• According to research by Creating Results, of 55+ social media users, 60% use Facebook at least once a day.

Statistics show that 65 years and older are Facebook’s fastest-growing demographic. Also, check out why seniors do not use other social media platforms.

5 Reasons Facebook Is Popular Among Older Adults

Facebook remains the top social media platform for older adults, offering a mix of connection, entertainment, and information.

Here’s why so many seniors prefer it:

1. Staying Connected with Loved Ones

One of the biggest reasons older adults use Facebook is to keep in touch with family and friends.

Whether it’s sharing photos, commenting on posts, or messaging loved ones, Facebook makes it easy to stay connected—even with those who live far away.

2. Reconnecting with Old Friends

With millions of users, Facebook helps older adults find and reconnect with friends from school, college, or past workplaces.

Whether it’s an old classmate or a neighbour from years ago, the platform makes rekindling relationships effortless.

3. Keeping Up with News and Events

For many, Facebook serves as a go-to source for news, local updates, and trending topics. Seniors can stay informed about world events, health tips, and community happenings—all from their news feed.

4. Endless Entertainment Options

From funny videos to movie clips, sports highlights, and music playlists, Facebook offers endless entertainment.

Users can follow their favorite celebrities, watch live events, and engage with content that matches their interests.

5. Exploring Hobbies and Supporting Causes

Facebook Groups provide a space for older adults to discuss hobbies, whether it’s gardening, reading, or travel.

Many also use Facebook to support charitable causes, connect with nonprofits, and participate in meaningful conversations.

YouTube – Seniors 2^nd Favorite Platform

When examining social media use among older adults, YouTube is the second most popular platform. Here are some of the statistics about YouTube and older adults.

• According to AARP, 51% of 50+ older adults are YouTube users
• YouTube is used by 88% of 55+ users, according to Creating Results
• 59% of those over 55 visit YouTube several times a week while 73% use YouTube at least once a week
• YouTube has 450 million users aged 55 and above, making them 17.8% of the total user base

Facebook and YouTube are also the most popular social media networks among younger generations. According to the latest stats, Facebook is the most-used social network with 2.9 Billion users worldwide while YouTube is the second most-used social media network with 2.2 Billion monthly active users.

The popularity of Facebook and YouTube and the increasing use of Instagram and TikTok makes it clear that older adults love photos and video content.

5 Takeaways about Social Media Use among Older Adults

When examining what social media do older adults use, here are 5 important points.

1. Most older adults use social media (88% according to the latest AARP Survey)
2. Overall social media use is increasing among seniors. Only 12% of 50 years and older did not use social media in 2022, down from 15% in 2021
3. Older adults are most active on Facebook (71%) and YouTube (51%)
4. Instagram and TikTok are becoming popular among the elderly. Instagram use increased from 24% in 2021 to 28% in 2022. 15% of older adults used TikTok in 2022, up from 10% in 2021.
5. 65 years and older are Facebook’s fastest-growing demographics, according to Social Shepherd

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