Older Australians are using social media and technology to feel more connected
Date: 13 March 2017
The latest stats released from aged care specialist Whiddon’s Social Isolation and Loneliness Report have revealed that 2.7 million Australians aged over 65 years use the internet every day. This enthusiastic embrace of new technology is helping them stay connected with their loved ones and community, evidenced by daily internet users being significantly less likely to experience feelings of loneliness than those who log on less often.
According to Whiddon’s research, half of all Australians aged over 65 years (approx 1.7 million people) experience feelings of loneliness. Not knowing enough people, or anyone, in their neighbourhood is revealed as the most common reason for this demographic feeling isolated, followed by a lack of transport, mobility or assistance to get out and about. The good news – these are all factors that a proficiency in online activity can help combat.
“The internet and social media is prevalent in all walks of life today for people of all ages. As such, it is an avenue we are continuing to explore as a means of keeping our residents and clients connected with loved ones and the community. It is so encouraging to witness the adoption of new technology in older Australians, helping them to stay in touch with loved ones and meet new people,” Karn Nelson, Executive General Manager Strategy & Research at Whiddon, said.
Interestingly, older Australians who are experiencing feelings of loneliness and who are active online are more likely to use the internet for social media, suggesting they view it as an effective way of establishing and maintaining connections. The results back this up, with 70 per cent of respondents saying it makes them feel less lonely. Given this, it is not surprising that that two thirds of those who are active on social media use it every day, while the remainder log on at least weekly.
Nelson continues, “Every day we see that many of our residents and clients really relish the time they spend online and on social media as means of keeping up with their families – particularly grandchildren, near and abroad. It allows them to stay in touch more frequently and reach out further than ever before.”
A commitment to online and social will form a core part of Whiddon’s ongoing goal of keeping people connected. It will be an integrated part of a new program the not-for-profit organisation will launch in 2017, with the goal of establishing and developing deep connections within communities. More information will be available on this soon.
- For practical tips on how to use technology and social media to stay connected, visit Whiddon’s Content Hub, YourLife
- Watch along as aged care residents Ruth and June share their wonderful story about how Skype helps them stay connected to family near and far.
Media Enquiries:
Amiria MacKinnon, Communications Manager, 0423 974 194