By now, most 55+ and senior living marketers know that older adults are online and active on social media. In fact, 74% of adults ages 50+ report using regularly using social media, says the newly released AARP 2025 Tech Trends Survey, and a report from Media Logic says about 47% of older adults spend over an hour a day on social media. Learn more about the social media platforms seniors use most in 2025 and how you can effectively reach seniors as they engage on social media.
First up: Facebook
While Facebook may be losing popularity with younger generations, the social media giant provides an easy way for older adults to stay connected with friends and family (and see and share those coveted grandkid photos!). But it’s not only about sharing photos or status updates. Many seniors are also engaged in Facebook groups, sharing their hobbies, supporting their favorite causes and even discussing books or health tips.
Why is Facebook a popular social media platform for seniors in 2025?
- Simple and intuitive user interface.
- The ability to easily connect with family and friends.
- Facebook’s massive community — everyone’s there!
THE PROOF: According to AARP’s 2025 report, 72% of adults 50+ are on Facebook, up slightly from 2024’s report. In Creating Results’ independent research, 60% of 55+ adults who are active on social media say they use Facebook daily. Social interaction, entertainment and current events are the most popular reasons seniors use the platform.
YouTube: Is the social media platform beating Facebook among seniors?
YouTube also tops the charts of the most popular social media platforms for seniors. In fact, AARP and Pew Research disagree as to which comes out on top.
According to AARP’s report on seniors and social media, 51% use YouTube. However, data from Pew Research puts YouTube on top, with 86% of the coveted 50–64 age group using the platform, and 65% of those 65+, beating out Facebook for the top spot.
Creating Results’ internal research also shows Facebook and YouTube having the majority of senior’s social media time, with 92% using Facebook and 88% using YouTube — making both a prime target for marketers focusing on the 50+ audience.
YouTube is more than just a platform for entertainment; it’s a learning hub for the 50+ generation. Do-it-yourself videos, news, health tips, cooking recipes — you name it, YouTube has it. It enables seniors to be both consumers and creators of content. Notably, YouTube Music also overtook Pandora as the music streaming service older adults prefer in Media Logic’s survey.
Why do seniors love YouTube in 2025?
- Diverse content — from entertainment to education.
- The option to watch content at one’s own pace.
- Accessibility features, like adjustable text size and captions.
THE PROOF: According to Pew Research, 86% of adults ages 50–64 use YouTube, as well as 65% of those 65+. In Creating Results’ independent research, 88% of mature consumers report using YouTube at least weekly. And while it’s a popular platform for entertainment, it’s also the most popular social media platform for research and education. What more, many communities haven’t invested significant resources in video, meaning there’s likely plenty of opportunity for your community to stand out.
In social media, age is just a number
No matter the platform, the reasons why seniors embrace social media are universal:
To stay connected: Whether it’s with family across the country or old friends from their hometown, social media bridges distances.
For information and learning: Social media offers a wealth of knowledge, from health and wellness to news and current affairs. It’s the new-age library for seniors.
Community building: Joining groups of like-minded individuals fosters a sense of community. Gardening, art, travel — there’s a group for every interest!
So next time you wonder, “What social media do seniors use most?” remember, it’s not just about the platform. It’s about connection, information and community. And with the right approach, your message can resonate powerfully with this growing, engaged audience.
Want more? Find out what else seniors are doing online in our recent blog post.