HealthBridge's In-Home Care Blog

Doesn't it seem like everyone is on Facebook now?  A year ago this would have seemed impossible, but now even our Dallas elder care clients are making friends on Facebook.  The truth is, the power of social interaction is ageless and it makes even the oldest among us feel, well, ageless.  

Sure, kids were the first to jump on board.  Then, their parents created accounts to see what their kids were up to.  Finally, the octogenarians joined on to find out what all the fuss was about.   

If your loved ones are Luddites, dragging their feet to the modern day water cooler, then please share with them these thoughts.

The Top 3 Reasons Everyone Over 80 Should Be On Facebook 

1. Long Lost Connections Return.  It's true.  As soon as you sign up for Facebook, you reconnect with someone from high school.  If your graduating class consisted of ten kids, I'll guarantee at least one of them sends you a friend request on day one.  People love connections - especially long lost connections.  A reconnection with an old friend or an out of touch relative will make your loved one's day.  
2. Baby Pictures.  Octogenarians have grandkids and great grandkids.  The fact is, most new parents nowadays haven't "developed" a picture in a decade.  The pictures of their kids aren't in albums on shelves, they're in albums online.  Each time the great grandkids do something cute, their parents post the pic on Facebook for their friends.  Your loved ones will absolutely love to check in every day and see the new pictures.  
3. Facebook Promotes Brain Health.  Well, not just Facebook, but new and interesting activities do improve the brain.  As we've written about before, octogenarians who spend time on new activities ward off mental decline better than others.  It's likely that Facebook and the internet will be a new, challenging activity for your mom or dad...which is a good thing.  They'll have a compelling reason to return (did I mention baby pictures) and they'll stay sharp while they learn.

So, open up Facebook and help your loved ones create an account.  While you're at it, become a fan of HealthBridge.  Our online elder care community has over 200 members now, which goes to show you, Facebook is not just for kids anymore.  

Are your octogenarian loved ones on Facebook?