Beyond the Screen: Confronting Detroit’s Senior Digital Divide in the Social Media Age

In 2024, it’s no secret that social media is the lifeblood of our economy and a cornerstone of daily life, influencing everything from politics and culture to news and beyond. No matter your age—whether you’re 2 or 92—you know it’s the driving force behind how we connect and communicate today. But with this pervasive influence comes a critical need for reliable internet access. And even with Wi-Fi in hand, many still face barriers when it comes to navigating the digital landscape, particularly social media.   This gap—the inability to effectively engage with the very tool shaping our modern world—is a concrete example of the digital divide. And who ends up getting left behind? Our elderly community, who are often perceived as “too far removed” from the tech-savvy realm of social media. But this perception is not just misguided; it’s a disservice. We must acknowledge this disparity and ensure that no one is excluded from the digital revolution, especially those who’ve paved the way for us. By bridging this divide, we can empower every generation to stay connected, informed, and included.   A task that Detroit native and social media director, Ethan Lloyd has taken under his wing, “After my grandmother passed away,...