Social media is now a central part of how we connect, share information, and access support. For older adults and caregivers, many of whom are navigating this space for the first time or using it more regularly, it offers meaningful opportunities. Whether it’s sharing photos with family, reading the news, or connecting with communities around the world, these platforms offer new ways to stay engaged, informed, and connected.
For those who are engaging for themselves or supporting a loved one with a disability, social media can serve as a bridge to community and resources. But like any tool, with these opportunities come risks, especially for those navigating health challenges, mental wellness, or caregiving responsibilities.
This article explores both the benefits and drawbacks of social media use for older adults and those who care for or support people with disabilities. Whether you’re online yourself or guiding someone else through the digital world, the hope is to provide you with some practical tips for safer, more intentional digital use.
Social media’s advantages
1. Staying connected across generations. One of the most valuable aspects of social media is its ability to keep us connected with family, old friends, continue long-distance relationships, or join new online communities. Video calls, shared photos, or family group chats offer a daily line to connection, helping reduce loneliness and isolation. For those caring for someone with a disability, online groups can provide emotional support and shared understanding.
Example: Facebook caregiver support groups or disability advocacy forums can help users connect with others facing similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and offering encouragement.
Tip: If you’re a caregiver, teaching your loved one how to use these tools can also deepen your bond and give them access to broader support.
2. Learning and skill-building at any age. If you’re caring for someone living with frailty, a medical condition or a disability, social media can provide a wealth of knowledge, emotional support, and a sense of community. Educational content is bountiful ….whether it’s tutorials on adaptive cooking, managing medications, or financial literacy, there are videos and articles tailored to a wide range of abilities and interests.
Example: Caregiver groups for dementia, autism, mobility needs, or long-term disability support offer real-world tips and emotional solidarity.
Tip: Many older adults are turning to platforms like YouTube to learn new skills or help a loved one gain independence.
3. Empowerment, advocacy and representation. More than ever, individuals with disabilities
are sharing their voices online, challenging stereotypes, advocating for inclusion, and reshaping public perception. For older adults and caregivers, amplifying these voices can help build a more inclusive world. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram give them a stage to showcase talents, discuss lived experiences, and challenge stigma.
Example: Campaigns like #InclusionMatters and #DisabledAndProud not only educate the public but also create pride and visibility for those in the community.
Tip: As a caregiver or ally, following advocacy creators can help you stay informed and encourage your
loved one to feel represented.
4 Empowering creativity and careers opportunities. For adults with disabilities, social media can also be a platform for life-long learning. self-expression, engagement, entrepreneurship, and even income generation. Whether it’s sharing artwork, starting a business, or creating content, these platforms can help unlock purpose and possibility. From music tutorials to health tips, there’s a world of educational content at your fingertips. Older adults—whether caring for someone or focusing on their well-being—can find guidance, learn new skills, or even explore hobbies they’ve never tried before.
Example: Volunteering virtually or mentoring on-line can foster growth in younger generations by sharing lived experiences.
Tip: As a caregiver, encouraging your loved one to explore their talents online can build confidence and independence. Many accessible videos are designed with visual clarity, step-by-step instructions, and closed captions—perfect for learning at your own pace.
What to be mindful of
While social channels can offer great value, it’s important to be aware of its potential downsides—both for yourself and those you support.
1. Cyberbullying and online harassment. Unfortunately, the online social environment isn’t always kind.
Older adults and individuals with disabilities are often targeted by online scams or bullying. This can take the form of rude comments, impersonation, or being taken advantage of in online financial transactions.
What you can do: Learn to use platform privacy settings to block, report, and filter harmful content. Figure out how to show loved ones (and yourself) how to block or report inappropriate users. Encourage open conversations about uncomfortable and negative experiences online.
2. Scams, misinformation, and exploitation. Online scams are growing more sophisticated, particularly those targeting older users or caregivers looking for quick solutions, products and advice. Misinformation about health, finances, or disability-related supports can cause real harm. For example, older adults are often targeted by scams involving fake charities, medical misinformation, or fraudulent tech support. There may also be vulnerability to being taken in by false “treatments” or exploitative products and services.
What you can do: Check information through credible sources before clicking, sharing, or giving personal info. Use antivirus software and privacy settings on your devices. When in doubt, slow down, pause and consult someone you trust.
3. Digital accessibility barriers. Not all social media platforms are designed with aging or disability in mind. Small text, complex layouts, and non-captioned videos can make navigation difficult.
What you can do: Explore accessibility features on phones and tablets, like voice control, text enlargement, or screen readers. Choose apps and websites with simple layouts and high contrast options.
4. Mental health strain and overuse. Endless scrolling—known as “doomscrolling”—can increase anxiety, depression, worsen sleep, or leave users feeling withdrawal and over-whelmed. Constant comparison to others or exposure to negative content can also lower self-esteem and increase feelings of loneliness. This applies to both caregivers and those they support.
What you can do: Take regular breaks, set screen time limits, and follow accounts that uplift rather than drain you. It is also helpful to avoid screens before bed, and remind yourself: most people only share the highlights, not the full story.
Creating a healthier digital environment
Whether you’re online for yourself or helping someone else, here are some tips to protect mental wellness and foster a balanced relationship with technology.
1. Start with digital literacy. Consider attending a local tech support class or inviting a grandchild to teach you ways to recognize fake news, avoid scams, and protect your privacy.
2. Embrace accessibility tools. Make use of built-in features like text-to-speech, voice typing, zoom controls, and high-contrast display modes to make technology more comfortable and user-friendly.
3. Build safe social circles. Curate your feed to feed you. Follow pages and people who inform, are positive and support your values. Whether that’s disability advocates, faith leaders, health experts, or nature photography take the lead in following things that will enhance your life.
4. Use social media for good. Share your story. Offer wisdom. Engage in advocacy. Post photos that spark joy. Even simple positive actions can ripple outwards and help reduce stigma around aging, caregiving, and disability.
We are never too old to learn, adapt, or support others. Social media, when used with care and purpose, can be a tool for empowerment; not just for ourselves, but for those we care for. The key is balance: staying informed without feeling overwhelmed, staying connected without losing presence, and using digital tools to empower—not exploit—ourselves and those we love.
Whether you’re logging on to share a photo, find support, or help someone you love thrive, it all starts with awareness. By learning together, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering open dialogue, we can ensure social media serves as a bridge, not a barrier, to health, dignity, and community.
To learn more or book a session for your organization or group, email: thesocialreboots@gmail.com.
Joey Florence, MSW, RSW is a social worker who works alongside individuals with disabilities and runs an innovative school education program that empowers and equips individuals with healthier digital habits and mental well-being.
The social reboot and SocialEyes
Designed to raise awareness about the impact of social media on mental health these programs provide practical, age-appropriate, and disability-informed education for individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals. Through workshops, programs, and resources, they offer practical tools to build healthier digital habits and foster well-being.
Photos: Getty Images, Unsplash. Centre For Ageing Better, Unsplash. CHPCA.
