As a graphic designer by trade and a complete tech junkie - I have never had to live with the problem of being "an illiterate" when it comes to computers and tech related topics. What is often self-explanatory to me - is NOT to many others, especially those of the older generation.
Having said that... I am often pleasantly surprised at how the older generation is becoming increasingly tech savvy - in fact... I would go as far as to say that they actually really enjoy all the benefits of it - (although few would admit it)...lest their children forget that they walked a million miles to school, raised several children, worked a full time job, made home cooked meals, packed lunches and still managed to do all the housework. ;)
I know there are many people who are incredibly "anti" social media... but no, I am not one of them...
"Hi, my name is Jayne and I am a social media addict" - Just Saying lol!
I am what you could call "passionate" about social media and online networking. I work it and "juice it" for everything it is worth. Do I appreciate time away from it? but of course.... Would I choose to be removed from my life? Absolutely NOT!
My reality, as a designer and mom is that outside of my hours in front of the computer... I am pretty much EXHAUSTED and whilst a good "Razzle Dazzle night on the town" is great from time to time... I do find that these days I simply don't have the energy for it (or the inclination to deal with the after effects. Lol)
This is how we prefer to roll these days... lol
Keeping that in mind it makes a lot of sense (to me anyway) that the older generation would get GREAT pleasure from the convenience which social media and technology offers.
"Maturing" comes with a whole truckload of responsibilities and getting time with your friends or family is often not an option anymore. Never mind couples having to make date nights in order to get some quality time together, friends too are faced with a similar agenda.
Technology offers a solution to that problem. No it does not replace one on one contact - but it does offer "compensation". Mom's, Dad's and even Aunts, Uncles and grandparents now have access to a million pictures which tell the story that is "our lives" (and we all know how much grandparents love photos hehe. )
One of my aunts is the biggest (older generation) social media junkie I know...hehe... In fact I think she might even trump me (only just.lol) she is on every online platform known to man... and she LOVES it!
I think it is wonderful! Yes, I speak as a person from one of the last generations to ever have had any "balance" in upbringing... because i grew up with AND without technology... but still, I think it's fabulous that the older generation is "diving in" and enjoying it.
Why the hell not! Life is too short not to enjoy ALL of it!
It's looks to me...like many of them are turning into the addicts they never thought they would be. ;)
Until next time...
Much Love from Cape Town, South Africa xxx
