Do older people use Facebook or Instagram? A comprehensive look at senior social media usage

According to a 2025 AARP study, nearly three-quarters of adults aged 50+ are active on social media, dispelling myths and providing a clear answer to the question: do older people use Facebook or Instagram? This trend showcases how seniors embrace technology to stay connected and engaged.

Quick Summary

Older people are active users of both Facebook and Instagram, though their engagement and motivations differ. Facebook remains the dominant platform for older adults connecting with family and friends, while Instagram adoption is growing steadily, especially among those in the 50-64 age bracket.

Key Points

• Facebook is the most popular platform: With a high adoption rate among the 50+ demographic, Facebook is the primary social network for older adults to connect with family and friends.

• Instagram adoption is increasing: While less used than Facebook, Instagram's popularity is growing among older generations, especially those who appreciate visual content.

• Social connection is the main driver: The primary motivation for older adults using social media is to stay connected with loved ones and combat loneliness.

• Education is key to safety: Navigating privacy settings, recognizing scams, and understanding misinformation are crucial for a safe online experience.

• Benefits extend beyond connection: Social media provides significant benefits for cognitive engagement, mental health, and access to new communities for seniors.

• Family support is valuable: Help from tech-savvy family members or caregivers can make the learning process easier and safer for older adults starting on social media.

Senior Social Media Use: A Digital Connection

For many, the image of a social media user is a young adult, but statistics show that older generations are increasingly active online. The internet has become an essential tool for maintaining social ties, accessing information, and staying entertained, with platforms like Facebook and Instagram playing significant roles.

Facebook vs. Instagram: A Generational Divide

While both platforms, owned by Meta, appeal to older adults, their usage patterns differ based on age and a platform's original purpose. Facebook, having been around longer, has a more established user base among older generations, while Instagram, focused on visual content, has seen more recent growth.

The Facebook Mainstay for Seniors

Facebook's longevity and intuitive interface have made it the go-to social network for older adults. Its features cater to their primary social needs, making it a powerful tool for maintaining relationships and staying informed. Seniors use it to connect with family, find old friends, join communities with shared interests, and access news.

Instagram's Rising Popularity

Though often associated with a younger demographic, Instagram's adoption among older adults is on the rise, particularly those in the 50-64 age group. Its visual nature appeals to those who enjoy photography, art, or simply watching video content.

The Benefits of Social Media for Older Adults

Beyond simply connecting, social media use offers significant benefits that support healthy aging and mental well-being by combating loneliness and isolation.

Reducing Social Isolation

Social media provides a vital lifeline for many, particularly those with mobility issues or who live far from loved ones. Research suggests it can help compensate for fewer in-person interactions.

Boosting Cognitive Engagement

Learning and navigating social media platforms can provide valuable cognitive stimulation, helping to keep the mind sharp.

Supporting Mental Health

Increased feelings of social connectedness through online interaction are linked to greater life satisfaction and improved mental health outcomes for older adults.

Risks and Safety on Social Media

Social media use presents risks like misinformation, scams, and privacy concerns. To navigate these safely, older adults should regularly check privacy settings, learn to spot scams, verify information sources, and use strong, unique passwords.

How to Help Older Adults Get Started

Caregivers and family can help seniors start on social media by beginning with one platform like Facebook, using simple instructions, focusing on relevant features, and offering ongoing support.

Social Media Platforms for Older Adults: A Comparison

The comparison of Facebook and Instagram for older adults highlights key differences. Facebook is primarily used for connecting with family/friends, joining groups, and getting news, with very high adoption among the 50+ age group. Instagram is more focused on visual sharing and creative inspiration, with growing but still younger-skewing adoption. Facebook's interface is more robust with many features, while Instagram is simplified and visually driven. Facebook is generally considered easier for beginners, while Instagram can be intuitive visually, but features like Reels can be complex. Regarding safety, Facebook's group focus allows for moderation, but its broader network poses wider scam risks, whereas Instagram's visual content can be safer, though private messaging scams exist.

Conclusion: Digital Engagement is a Key Part of Healthy Aging

Do older people use Facebook or Instagram? The evidence shows increasing adoption. Embracing social media allows seniors to find community, reduce loneliness, and stay active mentally. Guidance on safe usage is crucial for them to fully enjoy the digital world. To learn more about technology's benefits for seniors, {Link: the National Institutes of Health https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/online-safety/social-networking-sites-what-older-adults-need-know} is a valuable resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do older people really use social media often?

Yes, older adults are one of the fastest-growing demographics on social media. Studies show that a significant majority of adults aged 50 and older use social media, with many logging in daily.

Is Facebook or Instagram more popular with seniors?

Facebook remains significantly more popular among older adults, especially those aged 65 and older. While Instagram usage is on the rise, its user base still skews younger, though adoption among the 50-64 age bracket is steadily increasing.

Why do older people use Facebook?

Seniors primarily use Facebook to connect with family and friends, share photos, get news, and join groups based on shared interests. It serves as a vital tool for staying informed and socially engaged, especially for those who are less mobile.

Is Instagram safe for seniors?

Instagram can be safe for seniors, but like any social media platform, it's essential to be aware of the risks. It's important to use strong privacy settings, be cautious of suspicious messages or accounts, and only follow people you know.

How can I help an older adult get started on social media?

Start by focusing on one platform like Facebook, which is generally more intuitive for older adults. Walk them through the setup process, explain privacy settings, and show them how to connect with family. Be patient, provide hands-on guidance, and remind them of common safety precautions.

What are the biggest risks for older adults on social media?

The main risks include exposure to misinformation, susceptibility to financial scams and identity theft, and potential social isolation if online interactions replace in-person ones. It is crucial to be aware of these dangers.

Can social media use improve an older adult's mental health?

Yes, research indicates that social media use can positively impact mental health by fostering a sense of community, reducing loneliness, and increasing social connectedness, particularly among those with smaller social networks.