UNDERSTANDING THE USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES AND ITS EFFECTS ON WELL-BEING AMONG OLDER FACEBOOK USERS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Previous studies focused on how Social Networking Sites (SNS) impact the younger generation, but not much is known about the impact it has on the older generation. This study examines the Facebook usage patterns, personality traits and the psychological impacts it has on older adults aged 60 and above in Singapore. Results from the 28-items online questionnaire (N = 98) showed that the openness to experience trait predicted more frequent Facebook use, and has a preference for Facebook affordances that enables electronic interactions. The use of electronic interactions also predicted higher levels of perceived social support. Interestingly, perceived social support is not a mediator of Facebook use and well-being. Significant direct effects were found instead, between Facebook use and life satisfaction, and Facebook use and loneliness. More research is warranted to better understand Facebook usage patterns and the impacts it has on future generations of older adults in Singapore to help improve their well-being.