ELDERLY INFORMATION SEEKING BEHAVIOR ON SOCIAL MEDIA: A CAREGIVER'S PERSPECTIVE

The elderly have many challenges and vulnerabilities in using social media, but there is limited research that identifies the information seeking behavior of the elderly from the perspective of caregivers. This study examines the information-seeking behavior of the elderly on social media from the caregiver's perspective. The research focuses on the information-seeking needs, sources, and challenges older adults face on social media. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 elderly companions. Interview data were transcribed and grouped based on relevant themes during the analysis. Results showed that older adults seek information on health, gardening, spirituality, and entertainment, but face difficulties distinguishing between advertisements and genuine content, are vulnerable to scams, and are emotionally affected. The perspective of mentors provides more in-depth findings regarding older adults' information-seeking behavior in social media. This study highlights the importance of mentoring in improving older adults' digital literacy. Further research should examine community programs and the use of new technologies such as artificial intelligence applications to support older adults' information-seeking behavior.