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    Media Literacy for Seniors

    Don't be the algorithm's pawn.

    How algorithms work

    • Social media shows you content that triggers EMOTIONS.
    • Outrage + fear = high engagement = served more.
    • Calm reasonable content = less shown.
    • Result: feed feels more extreme than reality.
    • Especially during election years.
    • "Filter bubbles" — only see one side.

    Resist the manipulation

    • Don't engage with rage-bait — it amplifies.
    • Read article BEFORE reacting / sharing.
    • Click outside your "side" sometimes.
    • Search opposing arguments — strengthens own.
    • Limit social media to 30 min/day.
    • Notice when media makes you angry — pause + breathe.
    • Real life rarely as polarized as feed.

    Source bias check

    • AllSides.com — rates news sources Left/Center/Right.
    • Ad Fontes Media Bias Chart — visual map.
    • Media Bias/Fact Check — searchable database.
    • Try reading 1 left + 1 right + 1 center on big stories.
    • Truth often in middle.

    Stop scams using these skills

    • "Senator says SS will end" — verify on AP.
    • "Doctor: don't take this medication" — search original study.
    • "FREE government program ending Friday" — usually scam.
    • Same skills protect against scams + misinformation.

    Free resources

    News Literacy Project — newslit.org. Free. Designed for adults. 5-min lessons. AARP scam alerts — free email. Stanford History Education Group — free media literacy courses.