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Social networking sites and the experience of older adult users: a systematic review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 September 2019

Loveday Newman Open the ORCID record for Loveday Newman [Opens in a new window] ,
Charlotte Stoner Open the ORCID record for Charlotte Stoner [Opens in a new window]  and
Aimee Spector
Loveday Newman*
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
Charlotte Stoner
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
Aimee Spector
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
*
*Corresponding author. Email: loveday.newman.13@ucl.ac.uk; loveday.newman@cpft.nhs.uk
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Abstract

This study aimed to systematically review the use of social networking sites (SNSs) from an older adult perspective (all papers had an average sample age of 65+ and samples ranged in age from 50 to 98). Characteristics of older adult SNS users, incentives and disincentives for use, and the relationship between SNS use, wellbeing and cognitive function were explored. From a systematic search, 21 papers met inclusion criteria and were subjected to a quality review. Paper quality was often low or medium, as rated by a standard quality assessment framework. Results indicated that older adult SNS users were more likely to have particular characteristics, including being female and younger. The main incentive for use was to maintain contact with family and friends. Disincentives included privacy concerns and lack of perceived usefulness. The relationship between SNS use, wellbeing and cognitive function was inconclusive. SNS use is a multi-dimensional phenomenon that needs to be understood in the context of broader communication practices, individuals’ social relationships, and individual preferences and characteristics.

Keywords

social mediasocial networking sitesolder adultsageingtechnologysystematic review
Type
Article
Information
Ageing & Society , Volume 41 , Issue 2 , February 2021 , pp. 377 - 402
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2019

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