How is social media use linked to loneliness and cognition in older adults?

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Social media offers older adults new ways to interact, but because it differs fundamentally from face-to-face communication, its relationship with social cognition remains unclear. The study examined how social media use and abuse relate to social cognition, cognitive functioning, and loneliness in older adults.

A total of 529 participants aged 60–89 completed online measures of social cognition, cognitive functioning, loneliness, and social support, as well as assessments of social media use and abuse. Four main findings emerged.

Greater social media use and social media abuse were both associated with poorer social cognition. Abuse, but not general use, was associated with lower cognitive functioning, particularly among adults aged 65 and older. Social media use was related to lower loneliness through higher social support; however, loneliness also strengthened the association between social media use and abuse. Women tended to use and abuse social media more than men.

The authors suggest that social media may be a double-edged sword for older adults: moderate use is related to social connectedness and lower loneliness, while excessive or addictive use is linked to declines in cognitive and social functioning. They highlight the need to distinguish normal from problematic engagement and promote healthy digital habits among aging populations.