Micki Costello, Surviving Spouse Advisory Committee member

The age of the computer and smartphone has changed the way people communicate and interact with one another. According to an article from Pew Research Center, around 7 in 10 Americans use social media to “connect with one another, engage with news content, share information, and entertain themselves.” And it is commonplace to see individuals walking down the street, sitting at a table, or, unfortunately, driving their cars while using a cellphone.

Social media even gained added emphasis during this past election as a tool for candidates to connect directly with the American people.

Some of the more common social media applications include:

Facebook — a social networking site that allows you to connect with friends, family, and peers; share messages, videos, and photos; and like and follow companies, causes, business, etcetera.

Twitter — a social networking site that enables users to send and receive communication in 140 characters or less.

LinkedIn — popular for professionals looking to network, connect with peers, and job search.

Instagram — used to take, edit, share, and view photos and videos.

Snapchat — similar to Instagram in that it’s photo and video focused, but the messages are available for only a short time.

Pinterest — used to create a personal catalog of websites, pictures, ideas, and how-to’s for later use.

To learn more or to get started using social media, visit http://www.gcflearnfree.org/topics/socialmedia/ and http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/getting-started/.

MOAA has a presence of numerous social media sites. Learn more.

As with just about anything, it is necessary to use social media responsibly. Be aware of and know how to edit public profile settings to ensure privacy, and remember it is a choice to do any or none at all.