Seniors are embracing Facebook in big numbers. As younger demographics ditch the platform for emerging communities like TikTok, Facebook’s senior user base has grown to over 70%, according to recent data from AARP. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including digital communication features that keep seniors connected to friends, families, and their communities.
Even better, setting up a Facebook is as simple as it gets. It’s also free to register and use. Users may access the platform on their smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Learn how to create a Facebook account and discover even more features to improve the social media experience.
Register for Email to Start Creating Online Profiles
All social media networks require an email address to register an account, and Facebook is no exception. Visitors can’t even browse the app without an account. Start by registering an email address through an email client of choice; Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, and MSN are easy to use and free to sign up.
Next, visit Facebook.com to register for a free account. Enter a full name and email address to get started. Users may also sign up with a phone number.
Once registered, users are required to confirm their contact information by imputing a security code. This code is sent to the provided email address. Users who sign up with phone numbers may receive this code via text message.
Once confirmed, seniors are free to set up their profiles!
The Basics Of Setting Up a Facebook Account
There’s a lot to experience on Facebook. Start with the basics first like uploading a profile picture. Users may have photos uploaded to a computer hard drive; these can be accessed through the computer’s file manager.
Seniors can also take a picture with a webcam or smartphone camera. The latter method is the quickest. Users may also ask family members for any recent photos.
Seniors often upload pictures of the whole family as profile pictures. Users may also upload logos of causes they’re passionate about, sports team logos, and other meaningful avatar ideas.
If a scanner is available, seniors can scan and upload photos from family albums to the computer. Facebook has a photo album section that allows users to upload a large quantity of photos to profiles and organize them into separate albums. It’s a wonderful way to share photos with family and friends.
Users are welcome to add the following basic information to their profiles:
- Name
- Hometown
- Birthday
- Occupation
- Relatives
- Interests
Seniors can also write a mini bio about themselves in the provided profile section. There is also a section for local organizations, charities, alumni groups, and other areas of interest. Senior users can also create their first post, introducing themselves to the platform.
There is also space for uploading a header image. This image is much larger than the profile picture, measuring 820×462 pixels. Seniors can use this space to upload family reunion photos, garden images, landmarks, and other photos of interest.
Networking On Facebook
Facebook is known for its networking opportunities. It’s a great way for seniors to connect with other seniors. Users can browse the network through its search feature to find friends, family, school alumni, and past colleagues by name.
Seniors are also encouraged to join Facebook groups to expand their network. Users can find a Facebook page for virtually any local social group or organization, including libraries, senior social clubs, activities groups, and more.
Other types of Facebook groups include:
- Gardening clubs
- Book clubs
- Facebook pages for volunteers
- Museum groups
- Drawing and painting clubs
- Sip and paint social groups
- Walking groups
- Eco-friendly clubs
- Philanthropic groups
Facebook groups help seniors find volunteer opportunities and travel groups in the area. All contact and address information is included on the group’s page. Groups will also post upcoming events on the page’s Facebook wall.
Small businesses also have Facebook pages. Seniors can learn when a business may be closed due to weather or get the scoop on exclusive deals and senior discounts. Users can also find great deals on furniture, collectibles, and other used valuables through the Facebook marketplace; likewise, seniors can sell unwanted items through the marketplace when downsizing to a smaller space.
School alumni’s Facebook pages are particularly popular with seniors. Alumni can post questions inquiring about their former classmates or inform classes about the passing of alumni. Users are encouraged to post photos from their high school years and share memories.
Senior Social Media Tips for Staying Safe Online
There are many features to explore on Facebook, but practicing safe online networking is just as important. Seniors are encouraged to create hard-to-guess passwords; browsers like Chrome also have encrypted password managers that remember passwords, as well.
Users should never share passwords in person or over Facebook chat. Seniors may also change their passwords at any time.
Profiles may also be set to “private” to prevent locations and other identifying information from being public. Users can also prevent search engine indexing of their Facebook profile.
Two-factor authentication is also available. This prompts a multi-step verification process. Users may be required to punch in an email code and a text message code to access Facebook.
Seniors should avoid clicking on suspicious links sent through the Facebook Messenger app. Clicking on spam or phishing links may cause a profile to be hacked. Don’t click on spam links shared in Facebook groups, either.
All new senior Facebook users should research beginner tech tips for navigating the site safely. This contributes to a better experience overall.
Learn How to Create a Facebook Account Today!
Now is the perfect time to discover everything social media has to offer tech-savvy seniors. Building social connections for seniors is a great way to find more senior mental health support. Learn how to create a Facebook account by following the steps in this Facebook setup guide or by asking someone with more social media experience.
The leadership team at Seaton Towson brings decades of experience in senior wellness, memory care, senior diet, and more to the Towson area. Our senior living community is designed to help seniors thrive in their golden years, providing scenic courtyards, comfortable accommodations, restaurant-style dining, and engaging social calendars.
Contact us today to book a tour and view our vibrant community.
