One-third of Baby Boomers use social networking sites compared with 20% a year ago, according to new data.
The report released, from the Pew Internet & American Life Project, found that while nearly two-thirds of adult online users in the US use social networks, there is growing interest among the elderly in sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
The study also found that among Baby Boomers aged 50 to 64, around one-third or 32% said they use social networking sites compared with 20% a year ago.
Overall, 65% of adult internet users now say they use a social networking site like MySpace, Facebook or LinkedIn, up from 61% one year ago, said Pew.
However, the frequency of social networking site usage among young adult internet users under age 30 was stable over the last year at 61%, compared with 60% a year ago.
Senior Research Specialist and co-author of the report Mary Madden said the graying of social networking sites continues, but the oldest users are still far less likely to be making regular use of these tools.
Madden added, “While seniors are testing the waters, many Baby Boomers are beginning to make a trip to the social media pool part of their daily routine.”
