Friday, March 20, 2009

Over 50, Lonely And Seeking Friends

By Robert Barra-Hayes

The Internet has become a way of maintaining contact with the outside world for many people. This may be especially true for the older generation. Many may be home a lot of time either due to an infirmity or caring for a spouse or loved one that is housebound. This is a way they can keep an outside link. There are many chat rooms for seniors as well as those that are open to anyone. It may be comfortable for some older adults to talk with people of their own age.

Be Aware of the Dangers

However, one thing they must be aware of when it comes to chat rooms are those who peruse these websites looking for unsuspecting victims. The dangers of chat rooms should be one thing everyone educates themselves on before joining one. There are many that are perfectly safe, but knowing what to watch for can help you to avoid becoming a victim.

A few safety rules when joining a chat room can help to keep this an enjoyable place for you to go and meet new friends. The main thing to remember when joining a chat room is to never give your address or any other personal information online. Even if the person you are giving it to is only interested in friendship, you are putting your personal information out there for anyone to see. If someone asks for this personal information this should immediately set off some warning bells. Why would they be interested in knowing your information?

Many times a seemingly innocent friendship has resulted in problems for those who are too trusting. Treat anyone you talk to online as a potential threat when it comes to information they could use to gain access to your bank accounts, home address, daily schedule or any assets you own. There are people who may impress you as being caring and concerned but they are good at doing this. It is how they gain trust.

People have lost their entire life savings because they trusted someone who they met online. Its actually not as difficult as you may think for a scam artist to get access to your bank account using some of your personal information. These criminals are professionals at what they do, so be very careful " they will use some very clever means to try to get your information. Lonely senior citizens who have no nearby family or friends are often targets for these scammers, which makes it especially important for the older generation to be cautious online.

Choosing Safe Chat Rooms

People over the age of 50 may find that a safe chat room; one which monitors the profiles of its users and has safety systems in use is the best way to go. Of course, you should always do some research into the chat room to make sure that it is reputable " a good chat room can be just what older people who have limited opportunities to socialize elsewhere need.

In the situation of an older person who is caring for an infirm spouse or family member full time, they may have very little time to get out and about, leaving them little time for friends. However, chatrooms offer these people the opportunity to engage in conversation with others; something which is a welcome break from caring for their family members.

In fact, they may be able to speak with others who are in a similar situation and give each other emotional support. It can be extremely helpful to speak with someone else who is in the same situation as yourself.

Another situation may be an elderly person who has no one to talk to or visit. They may be miles away from their family. Their husband or wife may have already passed on and they may be lonely. This is a great way for them to meet people their own age and with whom they have things in common. For some, this could be the highlight of their day. They may look forward to the time they spend on the Internet talking with friends they have made in a chat room.

For young and old alike, chat rooms are a totally new way to interact with other people all over the world and make friends who share their interests. A safe chat room is a great way to take advantage of this opportunity to socialize with your own age group and make some new friends who share your interests! - 15437

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