The Influence of Social Media on Consumer Behaviour in the 55+ Age Group (Wplyw social mediow na zachowania konsumenckie osob w grupie 55+)

The process of aging of the societies in highly developed countries entails a lot of consequences concerning economic, social, political and cultural aspects. It influences the quality of life and its material dimension perceived by the people belonging to the senior group. It is reflected in the decision-making process and consumer behaviour. It is of crucial importance for contemporary brands as it requires modification and/or creation of new marketing activities which are adjusted to the needs and expectations of this particular group of customers. Social media can prove very useful in that process. The authors made an attempt to determine the role of social media in the consumption process in the age group of above 55. Particular attention was paid to consumer activities undertaken in the hypermedia space by members of that age group. The discussion was supported by results of the authors’ own research conducted in this area, which was carried out by means of a direct survey among participants of selected Universities of the Third Age.