Seniors can remember long before the Internet existed—and yet now, we live in a world that’s dependent on it. This can be jarring to some seniors. But others embrace the Internet and all it brings fully. And the truth is, the Internet can enrich the lives of seniors in dozens of ways. Here are just a few reasons why all seniors should love the Internet.
Dating
More and more seniors are going online to find love—and getting comfortable with online dating. There are plenty of websites out there that cater exclusively to seniors looking for a match—including DatingForSeniors.com, SeniorPeopleMeet.com, SeniorMatch.com, and ThirdAge. Online dating lets seniors meet people they might never have met through activity groups or existing circles of friends and acquaintances—something that was not widely possible before.
Making new friends
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The Internet can be as much of an annoyance as a blessing. But for most seniors, it brings untold benefits
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Sharing pictures and memories
It’s easy to share pictures online with sites like Instagram and Facebook. Grandparents love sharing pictures of their grandkids, and many seniors love sharing pictures of their families, vacations, new home remodeling projects, and more. Now you don’t have to wait to get your friends to come over to check out your latest photo album or slideshow—you can exhibit your pictures online for all to see.
Keeping up with family
The Internet makes keeping up with loved ones easy. Use Facebook to see what your grandchildren have been up to, check in on your kids, and connect with people you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Finding help and support
If you’re dealing with a difficult issue—the death of a loved one, news of an illness, financial problems, or other big life challenges—chances are there are plenty of people who have gone through something similar. And you can find them online. You can find blogs, online support groups and discussion boards, and resources online—as well as information that will help you learn more and make important decisions.
Learning new things
If you’re always trying to learn something new, the Internet makes that easier than ever. With online courses—some of them free—in everything from new languages to skills such as digital photography and macramé—you can pick up new hobbies easily online.
Bargain-hunting
Seniors who love bargains should love shopping online—where you can almost always find the best deal on whatever you’re searching for. It’s easy to find coupons and discounts for online stores, and online shopping eliminates the need to leave the house—ideal for those with mobility or transportation problems. The Internet is a paradise for those who love to shop—and anyone who loves a good deal.
Saving on travel
It’s easy to find discounts online for everything from hotels to flights and car rentals—often with special rates for seniors. No need to use a travel agent—the Internet will play that role for you. Check out sites such as Priceline.com, Kayak.com, and Travelocity for good deals. In addition, use Twitter for flash sales of airline seats and more.
The world at your fingertips
Some seniors are blessed with complete mobility for most or all of their later years. Others aren’t so lucky. For seniors with mobility problems, the Internet can make their world larger and much, much easier—providing opportunities for socializing, learning, shopping, and communicating without leaving the house. Seniors can even order groceries or takeout online—which can make life significantly easier.
The Internet can be as much of an annoyance as a blessing. But for most seniors, it brings untold benefits—in every area from shopping and self-enrichment to finding support and information to help you deal with difficult life challenges. There’s no question that there’s good reason why all seniors should love the Internet.
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