A Quiet Revolution Is Underway
Loneliness is a silent epidemic—especially among older people—and it’s not getting the attention it deserves.
Older generations often feel left behind in a world dominated by the fast-paced energy of Millennials, Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
As society evolves at a rapid digital pace, many seniors find themselves navigating shrinking social circles, reduced mobility, and an overwhelming sense of isolation and loneliness.
But what if the very tool we often blame for disconnecting us—social media—could be part of the solution?
The Digital Generation Gap Is Narrowing
Social media was once thought to be the exclusive playground of the young.
Built on trends, speed, and digital culture, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) catered primarily to younger audiences.
But that’s changing.
According to a 2023 Pew Research Centre study, nearly 45% of adults aged 65 and older in the U.S. now use social media—up from just 10% a decade ago.
In the UK, a report from Age UK revealed that over a third of older adults used digital tools to stay connected during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Similar patterns are emerging in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Take the case of Mrs Felicia Adegbite, a 72-year-old retired teacher in Lagos, Nigeria.
Before the pandemic, her days were filled with church gatherings and the lively chatter of neighbourhood children.
But when lockdowns hit, her world fell silent.
“I thought I would forget how to speak,” she told a local health NGO.
Then came a lifeline: her granddaughter helped her get on WhatsApp and Facebook.
“Every morning, I now get a ‘Good Morning’ from my church group.
I see photos of my grandchildren.
It’s like I’m there with them.”
For Mrs Adegbite and countless others like her, a smartphone and a little digital know-how have opened new doors—not to escape the real world, but to reconnect with it.
The Science: Why Staying Connected Matters
Social isolation has been linked to a slew of negative health outcomes—depression, cognitive decline, increased mortality, and more.
Conversely, maintaining strong social connections is associated with better mental health, improved cognitive function, and even longer life expectancy.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Gerontological Psychology tracked over 1,000 older adults newly introduced to social media.
The results were telling: those who actively engaged online reported 30% lower rates of self-reported loneliness and a 15% improvement in life satisfaction compared to those who remained offline.
Notably, the benefits were greatest when social media complemented, rather than replaced, real-world interactions.
Virtual book clubs, religious live streams, and video calls with family—were cited as digital tools that helped build a meaningful sense of community.
The Barriers: Why It’s Not So Simple
Despite its promise, social media is not a silver bullet.
Many older adults face major hurdles:
- Lack of digital literacy.
- Fear of online scams and misinformation.
- Complex user interfaces.
- Negative or confusing online content.
Overexposure to harmful or divisive content can also backfire, reinforcing feelings of anxiety or disconnection.
That’s why technology must be paired with support, education, and safety measures.
As one digital health expert puts it:
“With the right support, social media can give the elderly a renewed sense of purpose, community, and connection.”
What Can Be Done?
So, how do we ensure that social media becomes a bridge—not a barrier—for the elderly?
Here are a few actionable ideas:
- Community-Based Digital Training
Churches, mosques, community centres, and NGOs can run workshops not just on the “how” of social media—but on the “why,” — Helping seniors see the value in digital engagement is key.
- Simplified Technology
Tech companies can design senior-friendly interfaces, enable large-text modes, and introduce content filters to make platforms safer and more user-friendly.
- Policy Support
Governments can integrate digital literacy programs into public health initiatives, recognising the vital role technology plays in emotional and social well-being.
A More Connected Future—With the Elderly In Mind
As we envision a digitally connected future, especially in resource-stretched regions like parts of Africa where community ties run deep, we must ask: How can we use technology not to isolate but to include?
At Care City Media, we believe in the power of compassion, innovation, and thoughtful leadership to transform healthcare.
In this case, perhaps all it takes is a smartphone, a bit of curiosity, and a simple message that says: “You are not alone.”
Tell Us Your Story
Have you or someone you love experienced the healing power of social media?
We’d love to hear from you.
Join the conversation on Substack.
Loneliness Awareness Week (9–15 June 2025)
Meeting Loneliness Together
Loneliness Awareness Week (9–15 June 2025), organised by Marmalade Trust, returns this year under the theme “Meeting Loneliness Together.”
With a mission to reduce stigma and foster honest conversations, this annual campaign empowers individuals, organisations, schools, and governments to host a range of events, from coffee mornings and walking groups to “chatty tables” and virtual meet-ups.
Since its launch in 2017, the movement has grown globally, garnering attention from figures such as the UK Prime Minister and the NHS, as well as a trending hashtag and a Royal Mail stamp, all attesting to its impact.
At its heart, the week confronts a paradox. Despite living in one of the most digitally connected eras, many people still feel profoundly isolated.
Studies show over half of UK adults report loneliness at least monthly, though many feel embarrassed or fear being seen as vulnerable.
The campaign encourages simple, human actions—like asking “How are you?”, starting small conversations, or gifting time—to remind us that emotional presence matters as much as physical proximity.
This year’s toolkit invites participation all year, not just during the week: download resources, pin local events on the Connection Map, start conversations at work or school, or launch acts of connection—even something like a “Share a Cup of Kindness,” where a virtual coffee gesture can spark meaningful human connection.
This isn’t just awareness—it’s an invitation to rebuild community, one conversation at a time.
