SALT LAKE CITY — A recent article by the Washington Post explores research that has found that phone and social media use among older adults has surged. For example, usage jumped from 11% in 2010 to 45% in 2021.
Impact on family relationships
The article also reports that adult kids are noticing. They say their parents phone use is becoming a big concern as it can often get in the way of family time, even hurt relationships with kids and grandkids.
Three suggestions for better habits
Author Mary Jo Bell wants to help grandmas and grandpas build better screen habits to ensure connection with family always comes first. She shared three suggestions for older adults that can help them make better screen choices.
Remember the ‘Big Picture’ of Time and Relationships
Bell’s first piece of advice is to step back and think about your time more intentionally.
“You know how short life is,” she said.
She said to look at life in stages. She gave the metaphor of a three act production. The first act, in your 20s, is your soloist act. Once you get married and have kids, you've entered your choir act. Past that into your 50s and 60s, you move into the audience. Bell explained this is a critical part of a production.
“You get the fun of cheering on and encouraging your posterity,” she said. “What is the first directive given in any stage performance to the audience? Turn off your phones.”
Putting the devices away makes space for meaningful connection with loved ones who value your attention more than anything else.
Create Screen Boundaries
Bell emphasized that you don't have to completely get rid of the screens. She suggested setting intentional guidelines for yourself.
“There are times and places,” she said.
She recommended making screen time more purposeful.
“No scroll without soul,” Bell explained. “In other words, go ahead and spend that time with your grandchildren, but maybe make it meaningful.”
That could mean using a phone to explore something, like looking up dinosaurs or dolphins, discoveries or deep-sea diving. In that context, screens become a tool for connection.
Grace Matters More Than Perfection
Even with the best intentions, Bell said no one will get it right all the time.
“We’re gonna make mistakes,” she noted.
She shared a personal example of trying to disconnect on a family vacation, only to find herself slowly pulled back into texting. She said the key is to be aware.
“We don’t have to be perfect … but we can be aware and keep that big picture in mind,” Bell emphasized.
This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL's editorial standards are upheld.
