In 2026, it’s not a surprise: Most older adults are online and active on social media. In fact, 79% of adults ages 50+ report regularly browsing the web and 73% are also using social media, says the newly released AARP 2026 Tech Trends Survey (PDF, 15MB). What’s more, a report from Media Logic (PDF, 1MB) reports that 43% of older adults spend over an hour a day on social media. Learn more about the social media platforms seniors use most in 2026 and how you can effectively reach seniors as they engage on social media.
First up: Facebook
Facebook continues to provide 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, researching brands and even discussing books or health tips. In Media Logic’s survey (PDF, 1MB), 30% of seniors said they visit Facebook “many” times per day!
Why is Facebook a popular social media platform for seniors in 2026?
- 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 2026 report (PDF, 10MB), 72% of adults 50+ are on Facebook, the same percentage as its 2025 report. Similarly, Pew Research finds that 74% of 50–64 year olds are on Facebook, as well as 57% of those ages 65+.
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, 53% use YouTube. However, data from Pew Research puts YouTube on top, with 85% of the coveted 50–64 age group using the platform, and 64% of those 65+, beating out Facebook for the top spot. (These percentages are a slight decline from the previous year at 86% and 65%, respectively.)
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.
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, 85% of adults ages 50–64 use YouTube, as well as 64% of those 65+. And while it’s a popular platform for entertainment, it’s also the most popular social media platform for research and education. What’s more, many communities still haven’t invested significant resources in video, meaning there’s likely plenty of opportunity for your community to stand out.
Rising social media platforms: Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp and Reddit
While other social media platforms typically engage younger audiences, older adults — especially those on the younger side of 50+ — are becoming increasingly interested in them, too.
What’s appealing to seniors about Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp and Reddit?
- A natural progression from Facebook to Instagram, with increased visual appeal or “aesthetic,” as the younger generations say
- Simple user interface and authenticity on platforms like TikTok and Reddit
- The ability to easily connect with people from around the world who have similar experiences
- Those who enjoy international travel may find utility on WhatsApp, a popular way to communicate with friends and businesses, particularly in Europe
THE PROOF: According to Pew Research, each of these platforms has seen significant increases in use among those ages 50–64 in the past year. Instagram usage increased from 36% to 40%; TikTok from 26% to 30%, WhatsApp from 28% to 30% and Reddit from 11% to 16%. Most of them also saw modest increases among the 65+ audience as well.
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, old friends from their hometown or connecting with new people on health concerns or shared interests, 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.