by Wayne Harrigan

Created on: December 10, 2010

 As the internet has become available to many more people, there is increased interest in its advantages. Social networking, a phrase coined to explain the phenomenon of connecting people on various websites, has exploded in mainstream society and continues to expand exponentially. So what’s the point of all this?

Seniors are enjoying internet use and many have found the social networking sites of particular interest. Here are some tips on their use.

Facebook: At first, Facebook was a communications tool for the younger set, mostly university and college students.  That is long past.  Now, people of all ages have become members (it’s free) and are keeping in contact, often daily, with their list of “friends”.  Now “friends” may be childhood pals, classmates, co-workers, extended family members- there is no limit except those you impose yourself. The site permits users to “like” entertainers, writers, celebrities and to keep up with news updates from them. It is possible to share pictures, music, videos with anyone in your circle. If none of this appeals to you, perhaps Facebook isn’t the social network you should choose.

Twitter:  Twitter may be less personal. It’s easy to join (it’s free too). Once you have a profile (as simple or detailed as you prefer), you may then follow anyone else who is already on Twitter. They may also choose to follow your messages, “tweets”. If you are interested in the media, you may follow newspapers, television networks, writers. This will bring breaking news your way as it happens. Although workers may use this to bring traffic to their workplace, Twitter has a role to play for the retired set as well. Items listed on Twitter are limited to 140 characters. So each time you visit your home page, you will have a buffet of news snippets. They may be local, international, of interest or not, but you can quickly browse through the entries and see what catches your attention.

Zoomers: There is a new social network based in Toronto, Canada, which is intended for the 45 and ups (it’s free too). Zoomers, a term invented by media guru, Moses Znaimer, are Boomers with Zip. They are more healthy, wealthy, active and enthusiastic than ever before. The Zoomers site provides a place for joining interest groups, posting photos and videos, chatting. Again the profile you provide may be as detailed as you choose. Unlike Facebook, anyone who joins Zoomers has access to your profile. Most members don’t mind. The site is not restricted to Canadians- anyone is welcome.

YouTube: Although most people think of YouTube as a source of interesting videos on every possible topic, it can be a social network. Any member of YouTube (free again) can upload videos and more people are posting family events, vacation slides etc. 

Daily checking of social networking sites may take as little as ten minutes or as long as you like. You may choose to update your Facebook status or not. You may choose to add a tweet to your list on Twitter or not. You may choose to add a photo or a video to Zoomers that you think others will enjoy or not.

Don’t be bashful, social networking may be the hobby you’ve been waiting for.

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