Age differences in using Facebook: younger adults vs. older adults

Abstract

The use of social networking sites (SNSs) is prevalent as part of daily social interaction. However, older adults' use of SNSs has not been extensively explored. For SNSs to offer a positive user experience to specific user groups, it is important to understand the age-related differences in using SNSs. Given the necessity to fill this gap in the literature, this study investigates how younger and older adults differently use Facebook and their levels of satisfaction with using Facebook. An online survey was conducted with 679 Facebook users. Data analysis reveals that age makes a significant difference in Facebook activities and levels of satisfaction with using Facebook. The findings of the present study provide insights into the role of age in using SNSs as well as implications for further research.