THE EFFECT OF USING FACEBOOK ON ELDERLY PEOPLE DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The use of the Facebook communication network during the pandemic Coronavirus by the elderly was beneficial because it played a role in connecting family and friends, when physical encounters could not take place. Social media has presented numerous benefits on mental health, such as: developing skills in using new technologies that delay cognitive impairment, lower levels of loneliness and positive visions of the future. Many users said that in addition to being close to family, they learned about the pandemic and what it means, but they also expanded their list of friends in the virtual environment. Through the video call option, they were able to communicate with the loved ones and managed to overcome social isolation and the feeling of loneliness. Therefore, the use of Facebook has been beneficial among the elderly, giving them a pleasant environment of social and emotional connection with the loved ones, communication with virtual friends has been developed, and self-confidence has increased. Facebook communication network users obtained a higher score when assessing social satisfaction and increased confidence in technology.