As an audiologist, staying connected with your senior patients is crucial for providing ongoing care and support.
While often associated with younger generations, the adoption of social media among seniors is steadily growing. In recent years, social media has become increasingly popular among seniors. The latest survey by AARP found that only 12% do not use any social media platforms, down from 15% the previous year.1
Social media offers seniors a way to stay connected, informed, and engaged with friends, family, and the world.
As audiologists, understanding this trend is crucial as it impacts how we communicate and engage with our senior patients. Understanding which platforms seniors are using can help audiologists effectively market their services and products, such as hearing aids, while also providing valuable educational content and support.
Some key social media platforms seniors use, and how you as an audiologist can leverage these platforms to grow your audience and practice:
Facebook is the top social media platform being used by seniors. Statistics show that over 70% of adults aged 50+ are active users.1 Of 55+ adults active on social media, 60% say they use Facebook at least once a day.1
Facebook remains the dominant platform among seniors due to its user-friendly interface, wide adoption, and diverse functionalities.
Seniors use Facebook to connect with family members, join interest groups (like hobbies or alumni groups), and keep up with local community events. The platform’s emphasis on sharing photos, videos, and updates makes it an ideal choice for staying updated with loved ones.
Facebook is a great place to share content such as infographics or statistics that can quickly catch people’s eyes as they scroll. Health information, including information on different types of hearing conditions, hearing loss treatments, and healthy living tips, can also be used as content that is informative and easy to share.
Facebook is also a great place to share information about your practice and relevant updates, such as changes in business hours, new staff introductions, or facility updates.
YouTube
While primarily known for video content, YouTube has become a favorite among seniors for its vast tutorials, documentaries, and entertainment options.
According to surveys, about 51% of US adults aged 50 and older use YouTube, making it the second most-used social media platform for this demographic.2
And YouTube’s popularity is on the rise. The total number of senior users is increasing, as is the frequency with which seniors visit the platform. A 2022 report found that 88% of people aged 55 and older use YouTube weekly.2
Seniors use YouTube for various purposes, from entertainment and education to social connection and practical guidance.
Audiologists can utilize YouTube to reach their patients in many ways, including:
General Education: Create videos explaining hearing loss, the importance of hearing tests, and the use of hearing aids. Visual aids and animations can make complex information more understandable.
General Hearing Aid Tutorials: Step-by-step guides on using, maintaining, and troubleshooting hearing aids and other assistive listening devices.
Technology Tutorials: Teaching how to use hearing aids with smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices.
Awareness Campaigns: Videos raising awareness about the signs of hearing loss, the importance of early detection, and preventive measures.
Research has found that 28% of US adults aged 50 and older use Instagram, making it the third most used platform in that age group.3 Instagram’s visual nature appeals to seniors who enjoy sharing photos and short videos.
Instagram offers a more straightforward interface than other platforms, focusing on imagery and brief captions.
Seniors often use Instagram to document their daily lives, share memorable moments, and connect with family and friends through visual storytelling. This is a great place to share snapshots of new technology and look at your services from behind the scenes.
Nextdoor
Nextdoor is a neighborhood-focused social networking service that seniors find valuable for staying informed about local events, safety concerns, and community updates. It facilitates communication with neighbors, sharing recommendations, and organizing local activities or gatherings.
Nextdoor is often used for people seeking recommendations for products or services. People seek out local reviews and happenings, as well as local reviews. Keeping active on this platform can help audiologists keep in touch with their local community and share information to help people with questions or seeking hearing-related services.
