Elderly people access social networks

Social media, if used properly, is not only a tool for the elderly to “keep up with the times”, but also a place to nurture a positive spirit, enhance social interaction and bridge the gap between generations. When the elderly know how to protect themselves from technological pitfalls, social media will truly become a healthy, safe and valuable space.

As digital transformation is taking place strongly, social networks are not only a playground for the young generation, but also become an important tool to help the elderly expand communication, connect with friends and family, and access diverse sources of information.

In Lao Cai province, many elderly people are gradually becoming active “netizens”, living happily and healthily in the digital world . However, besides the benefits, this development also poses a great challenge in terms of information security, as the elderly become vulnerable to fraud and sophisticated exploitation through online tricks.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Dung, 65 years old, from Coc San commune, who used to be the President of the Elderly Association of Dong Tuyen commune (before the merger), got acquainted with social networks from 2013 - 2014. Now Facebook has become an indispensable "companion" in Ms. Dung's daily life. On her personal page, she shares warm family photos, picnics with friends and community activities.

However, Ms. Dung also warned about the potential risks when inexperienced seniors can be easily scammed online. She has encountered fake websites offering gifts or non-transparent promotions.

Ms. Dung confided: "I always stay cautious, never click on strange links and often remind friends of the same age to be vigilant, to avoid becoming victims of sophisticated tricks."

This view is also shared by Ms. Nguyen Thi Xuan Phuong, 67 years old, from Coc San commune. Ms. Phuong said that social networks are a useful tool for her to communicate with friends of the same age, especially in groups of seniors, former teachers, and classmates. Community activities not only help the elderly meet in person but also expand communication through cyberspace, where people share exercises, folk dances, and practical health information. She also particularly emphasized the role of propaganda and training sessions organized by local police, helping people to raise their vigilance against fraudulent acts and fake goods advertisements online. Thereby, community warnings are spread, contributing to protecting the elderly from unnecessary harm.

“With the police and local authorities informing us about online scams, everyone and I have raised our vigilance and stayed away from unclear links or advertisements,” said Ms. Phuong.

Elderly people in Lao Cai ward use social networks to share daily joys with friends.

In Lao Cai ward, Ms. Ly Thi May, 57 years old, used social networks to communicate for work, after retirement she used digital platforms to share about her life, trips and access information. With the help of her children and grandchildren and self-study, elderly people like Ms. May can completely master social networks if they know how to use them properly and stay alert to negative information.

“I usually consider carefully before sharing, do not rush to believe or spread fake news, and always stay vigilant,” Ms. May shared.

At the age of 76, Ms. Nguyen Thi Dan, Lao Cai Ward, regularly uses social media to post about her daily activities such as walking, joining a retirement group, and sharing life lessons. As an active member of the group of former cadres of Le Hong Phong Secondary School, Ms. Dan believes that social media not only helps her connect with friends, but also broadens her social understanding.

It is undeniable that social networks bring many benefits to the elderly such as keeping in touch with relatives, updating news promptly, participating in collective communication activities through digital space, improving spiritual life and health. However, besides the positive aspects, the risk of being scammed and impersonated online is also a big challenge. Tricks such as inviting to receive gifts, fake prizes, advertising products of unknown origin... can easily cause damage to the elderly if they lack vigilance and digital knowledge.

To maximize the benefits of social networks, the elderly need to be equipped with knowledge to identify risks, use technology safely and receive timely support from family, community and local authorities. Propaganda and training sessions on digital skills specifically for the elderly have been widely deployed, helping them feel confident and secure when entering the "digital world".

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/nguoi-gia-tiep-can-mang-xa-hoi-post880863.html