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Growing Concern Over Social-Media Use Among Older Adults in the UK
By Drooid · · How we work
Rising Concern Among Seniors
A 62-year-old resident of West Sussex described her experience with social-media platforms as addictive, noting that she often picks up her phone unconsciously and loses track of time while scrolling. She highlighted how constant online engagement can diminish “headspace” for activities she deems more relevant, and she expressed worry that excessive use interferes with family interactions, especially for parents and grandparents. The interview was conducted as the UK government prepares legislation to prohibit social-media access for children under 16, prompting calls for older users to model healthier digital habits.
Poll Shows Majority of Over-55s Engaged Weekly
According to a 2026 YouGov poll, more than half of adults aged over 55 in the United Kingdom report using social-media at least once a week. This figure underscores the breadth of online activity among a demographic traditionally viewed as less digitally immersed.
Government Plans to Restrict Under-16 Access
Policy makers are currently drafting measures that would ban social-media usage for anyone under the age of 16. While the exact timeline for implementation has not been disclosed, officials have indicated that the proposal is part of a broader effort to address perceived harms associated with excessive screen time among young people.
Implications for Inter-generational Role Modeling
The senior interviewee argued that older adults bear responsibility for setting digital-use examples for younger family members. She suggested that without mindful behavior from adults, children may adopt similar patterns of constant scrolling, reinforcing a cycle of over-use across generations. The discussion reflects a growing public dialogue about how digital habits affect mental well-being and family dynamics, extending concerns beyond youth to encompass the entire population.