Social Networking
Web-based social networking allows communities of older adults to connect, share knowledge with, and provide support to other older adults and their care providers.
These web-based social networks utilize a variety of means to facilitate communication among patients including discussion groups, chat, messaging, email, video, and file-sharing.
Social networking services connect older adults with other older adults as well as to clinicians, caregivers, researchers, health plans and suppliers. Older adults can use web-based social networking services to connect with friends and family as well as to exchange their knowledge and experiences of managing their conditions with other patients. Caregivers and clinicians can use social networks to manage and coordinate care for an older adult. Clinicians are also able to educate and promote preventive health, to collectively understand their patients’ needs and to remotely assist the patient, caregiver and family members.