While every texting, blogging, and Twittering Generation X and Generation Y member loves social networks, a new study finds that your grandma and grandpa may just be on Facebook and Twitter too!
Fastest Growing Group of Social Media Users
In a new research study conducted by Pew Research, older internet users are rapidly embracing social networks, quickly outpacing the growth rate amongst younger generations. In fact, between May 2009 and May 2010, internet users older than 50 doubled their social networking activities, soaring from 22% to 42% of the age segment. To contrast, in the same time period, the growth of social networking use for those between the ages of 18 and 29 rose by just 13%, from 75% to 86% of internet users.
Who Tweets and Posts on Facebook?
These older users are not only utilizing social networks to get back in touch with old friends and classmates, but to share updates on their daily lives as well. In fact, one out of 10 internet users who are 50 years or older Tweet about their day, update their Facebook pages, or utilize other social networks. On an average day, 20% of 50 – 64 year olds online will log onto their social networks.
What Does the Study Mean for Your Business?
If your target audience includes older adults, then social media is your ticket to reaching them. Tweet for their attention and add Facebook posts to become a resource they visit often. In the Pew Research study, many older adults utilize social media and blogs to stay abreast of chronic health issues, and if your business is in the health industry, social media is a double prescription for reaching your audience!
If you don’t have time to tweet or blog, let Communicate Better, your loyal literary sidekick, do all the work for you. We offer Twitter management and blog publication packages that allow you to garner the benefits of social media – without lifting a finger.
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