According to data from the Pew Internet and American Life Project, 43 percent of Internet surfers age 65 and up report using social media. This number has more than tripled since 2009, with seniors increasingly turning to websites like Facebook to stay in touch with family and friends, view pictures of their grandchildren, and connect with others who have similar hobbies and interests.
While baby photos, funny cat videos, and the details of your cousin Velma’s hip surgery are all excellent sources of entertainment, social media has another use many seniors overlook: saving money. It’s not a secret that you’re among the fastest growing social media demographic, and retailers have taken note. Many are feverishly promoting their brands and products on Facebook, Twitter and within other social media sites and cell phone apps. Consider the following suggestions to help you reap the rewards.
Give Them a Thumbs-Up
You’ve seen the little symbol of a hand giving a thumbs-up on Facebook. The number next to it indicates how many people have clicked the “Like” button on a specific post or page—and you should consider joining them. When you “Like” a store or brand, you’ll soon notice special offers, coupons and sales notices popping up within your news feed. Many of these promotions are for Facebook fans only—and often for a very limited time—so paying attention is an easy way to save at your favorite retailers or on products you use regularly.
Get to Tweeting
Unlike many celebrities, you have better things to do than broadcast 140-character messages about what you ate for lunch or dreamt about during a nap. You’re retired not insane, after all. However, Twitter can pay off if you think of this social media site as a constantly updating news ticker where you control the content. Follow money experts for tips and advice. Follow the AARP for news and exclusive discount opportunities. Follow your favorite retailers and brands for money saving deals.
Don’t Hesitate to Check In
The popular social review site, Foursquare, can be used to “check in” at restaurants, stores and other vendors and retailers you visit. Doing so requires a GPS equipped cell phone (most are these days) and the Foursquare app (it’s free), but the installation is well worth it. Many establishments use Foursquare as a digital loyalty card, presenting frequent visitors with money saving in-app coupons. The more times you check in, the greater the reward.
