Close the Gap: 5 Benefits For Boomers Who Join Social Media

If one of the latest New York Times articles is any indication, the voices of us Boomers are lacking in the social media sphere of influence, especially on TikTok. We are in demand and are encouraged to close the gap.

I will admit that I only recently started paying attention to an account I created last year because my daughter and grandchildren are on the platform. I ignored the account and platform because I assumed it was mostly for youngsters posting silly, meaningless, pranky, and the occasional dance challenge videos, and only went on when one of them shared a video with me. 

I am not the only Boomer who has thought and behaved this way, apparently. Our lack of presence has created a gap. And before I go any further, I should clarify that I'm really on the cusp of being a Boomer and Gen-Xer. I was born in the last year of the Boomer generation and tend to think I am equally or more aligned with Gen X, especially from a technological standpoint (I've always been an early adopter and lover of all things tech while so many Boomers mostly reject it). But I digress.

While I refuse to be present in any of my own videos or be an “influencer” or “granfluencer” for reasons already mentioned, there is an abundance of wisdom and experience in the Boomer (and Gen X) generation that needs to be shared. We don't have to be physically present in our own content, but what we've learned and experienced in life could be of benefit to younger generations. We just need to find creative and alternative ways of expressing what we know.

But those less camera-shy or private are highly encouraged to get out there!

Any approaches to combat ageism and promote the positive sides of aging are encouraged.

I can't convince my parents to like technology and participate in social media, but perhaps I can encourage others. If you are on the fence or a loved one or friend of a Boomer who resists, the following might be persuasive.

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Table of Contents

1. 1. Staying Connected
2. 2. Expanding Social Circles
3. 3. Sharing Knowledge and Experiences
4. 4. Lifelong Learning
5. 5. Advocacy and Activism
6. Addressing Concerns
7. Conclusion

1. Staying Connected

Social media serves as a powerful tool for staying connected with family, friends, and distant relatives. As we Boomers often have children and grandchildren living in different parts of the world, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp allow us to share updates, photos, and videos, bridging the geographical gap. By joining social media, we Boomers can witness and actively participate in the lives of our loved ones, fostering stronger bonds across generations.

2. Expanding Social Circles

Retirement doesn't mean an end to building new relationships. Social media platforms offer a vibrant space to connect with like-minded individuals, join communities, and explore shared interests. We Boomers can join groups or pages centered around hobbies, travel, literature, health, or any other area we find intriguing. Engaging in conversations and discussions with people from diverse backgrounds can broaden our horizons and lead to new friendships and exciting opportunities.

3. Sharing Knowledge and Experiences

We Boomers have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and life experiences that can be incredibly valuable to others. Social media provides a platform for us to share our expertise, insights, and stories. By engaging in online discussions or starting a blog, we can inspire, educate, entertain, and leave a lasting impact on younger generations. Embracing social media allows us to become digital mentors and contribute to a more inclusive and interconnected world.

4. Lifelong Learning

Social media is not just about sharing. It's a vast repository of information and a platform for continuous learning. I've been obsessed with the vast amount of educational information on YouTube for months, for example. We Boomers can access articles, videos, podcasts, and online courses to enhance our knowledge on topics of interest. Platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, and Twitter offer valuable educational content, empowering us to stay intellectually stimulated and up-to-date with current trends and developments.

5. Advocacy and Activism

Social media is a powerful tool for driving change and raising awareness. We Boomers, with our vast life experiences, can lend our voices to causes we care about. By engaging in social media activism, we can promote positive change, influence public opinion, and fight for social justice. Sharing personal stories, supporting relevant organizations, and participating in discussions on platforms like Twitter can amplify our impact and contribute to a more equitable society.

Addressing Concerns

It's natural for us Boomers to have concerns about social media, such as privacy and security. However, by following a few simple guidelines, these concerns can be mitigated. Setting privacy settings, being cautious about sharing personal information, and verifying the authenticity of information before sharing can help us navigate social media safely and responsibly.

Conclusion

The Boomer generation has so much to offer in the digital realm, and social media provides an excellent avenue for us to connect, learn, share, and contribute. By embracing social media, we Boomers can break stereotypes, bridge generation gaps, and make a positive impact on society. So, fellow Boomers, you are encouraged to dive into the digital age, embrace the power of social media, and make your voices heard in the vibrant online world.

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Manage your creative life and endeavors.

Tap into your creativity this fall and winter by learning something new!