Senior Influencers Are the New Cool—Here’s How to Become One

Think influencers are just for the younger crowd? Think again!

Sure, Gen Z may have mastered lip-syncing and turning errands into “content,” but seniors are taking over. From 80-year-olds dishing out life advice to retirees racking up millions of views, senior influencers are on the rise.

Cooking tips, travel stories, unfiltered takes on modern life—people can’t get enough. Turns out, experience, humor, and a little old-fashioned common sense make for great content. (And let’s be real, some things were better before everything had a subscription fee.)

Thinking of giving it a try?

Well, becoming a senior influencer isn’t about chasing viral trends or learning slang that sounds like gibberish. It’s about sharing what you know, in your way, with an audience that’s eager to listen.

Whether it’s storytelling, gardening, tech hacks, or just everyday wisdom, authenticity wins every time.

In this article, we’ll cover how to get started, the best platforms, how much you could earn and more. So, if you’re just curious or have ever thought, “Hey, I could do that!”— let’s dive in!

What Is a Senior Influencer?

A senior influencer is exactly what it sounds like—someone over 55 who shares their voice, experience, and maybe a few strong opinions with the internetThe Internet is a vast network of computers and other electronic devices connected globally, allowin... More.

It’s not about chasing clout or learning TikTok dances (unless you want to). It’s about building a presence, connecting with people, and proving that wisdom and wit never go out of style.

Seniors are thriving as influencers for one big reason: authenticity.

Unlike younger influencers who sometimes feel the pressure to keep up appearances, seniors have already lived through enough trends to know they’ll pass. Their life experience makes them relatable, and their expertise—whether it’s in cooking, gardening, travel, or even just surviving without GPS—keeps people coming back.

And it’s working.

Some of the most successful influencers today aren’t fresh out of college. They’re seasoned pros who’ve turned their passions into thriving online communities.

There’s Joan MacDonald, a 70-something fitness guru inspiring people to get stronger at any age.

Or fashion influencer Lyn Slater, the “Accidental IconAn icon is a small graphical symbol used to represent an object, action, or concept in a digital int... More,” proving that style has zero expiration date.

And let’s not forget all the retired grandmas and grandpas with millions of followers—some sharing family recipes, others just roasting their grandkids in hilarious videos.

The point? You don’t need to be tech-savvy or trendy to make an impact. You just need something to share. And let’s face it—after 55+ years, you definitely have stories worth telling.

What Can Seniors Do or Share?

So, you’re thinking about becoming a senior influencer, but you’re not sure what to post.

Don’t worry—you don’t have to lip-sync or dance. The internet loves content that feels real, and lucky for you, you’ve got a lifetime of stories, skills, and wisdom to share.

Here are some of the most popular content ideas for senior influencers:

• Lifestyle: Share your daily routine, offer tips, or tell personal stories. People love a peek into someone else’s life, even if it’s just how you make the perfect cup of coffee.
• Hobbies: Cooking, crafting, gardening, fitness—if you enjoy it, someone else does too. There’s a reason videos of people making homemade bread go viral.
• Travel: Whether you’re exploring the world or just the best diners in town, people love travel tips, recommendations, and firsthand experiences.
• Wisdom: You’ve got decades of knowledge. Share life advice, personal finance tips, or reflections on aging gracefully (or hilariously).
• Humor: Let’s face it, seniors have the best jokes. Whether it’s poking fun at modern life, reacting to new technology, or just sharing funny moments, humor always wins.

Finding Your Niche

Not sure what to focus on? Start by asking yourself:

• What do people always ask you for advice on?
• What do you enjoy talking about so much that your family secretly hopes you’ll find a new audience?
• What could you do or discuss every day without getting bored?

The key is to find something you love and let your personality shine.

The most successful influencers aren’t necessarily the most polished—they’re the ones who bring something real to the table. And after 55+ years of life, you’ve got plenty to work with.

The Best Platforms for Senior Influencers

So, where do you post your brilliant insights, hilarious observations, or top-secret family recipes? The good news is, you’ve got options.

The not-so-good news? The internet keeps inventing new platforms faster than you can say, “Wait, what’s BlueSky?”

Each platform has its strengths, and the best one for you depends on what kind of content you want to share. Let’s break it down.

Instagram: The Land of Pictures, Reels, and Brunch Photos

If you like sharing snapshots of your life—whether it’s your latest home project, your dog’s weird sleeping positions, or your expertly plated dinner—Instagram is a great place to start. It’s visual, easy to use, and perfect for lifestyle, fashion, and travel content.

Plus, Instagram Reels (short videos) are all the rage, so if you’ve ever wanted to give your best “I told you so” face to the camera while dishing out life advice, now’s your chance.

The downside? Keeping up with Instagram’s ever-changing features (Stories, Reels, IG Live) can feel like trying to learn a new language.

But don’t worry—you don’t need to master everything. A few good posts and some engagement with followers can go a long way.

TikTok*: The Wild, Unpredictable World of Viral Videos

TikTok is where short, snappy videos rule. Want to share funny observations, quick life hacks, or a 15-second rant about why modern appliances have too many buttons? TikTok is your place.

It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and home to senior influencers who have racked up millions of followers just by being themselves.

*But there’s a catch. TikTok’s future in the U.S. has been on a rollercoaster. And its fate remains uncertain. If you’re curious, it’s worth experimenting with, but maybe don’t build your entire influencer empire on it until you know it’s not going to be banned.

YouTube: The King of Long-Form Content

If you have a lot to say, YouTube is your best friend. It’s the go-to platform for in-depth tutorials, personal vlogs, and storytelling.

Want to teach people how to make the best meatloaf ever? Or share your wisdom on navigating retirement? YouTube gives you space to do that—without cramming everything into 30 seconds.

It takes more effort to film and edit videos, but YouTube rewards quality content.

Plus, once a video is out there, it can keep attracting viewers for years. (Unlike TikTok, where videos can disappear into the abyss within hours.)

Facebook: The Place Where Everyone Knows Your Name (Well, besides Cheers)

If you’re over 55, chances are you already have a Facebook account. And guess what? It’s still a great place for influencers.

Facebook is ideal for sharing longer posts, engaging with a built-in community, and posting a mix of photos, videos, and updates.

Unlike Instagram or TikTok, Facebook feels more personal. It’s a great place to connect with peers, share advice, or even start a private group around a shared interest.

The only downside? The comment section can sometimes turn into a family reunion—complete with arguments over who was supposed to bring the potato salad.

Pinterest: The Internet’s Idea Board

Pinterest is where people go when they need ideas and inspiration.

Whether it’s recipes, DIY projects, home decor, or travel inspiration, Pinterest is a goldmine for visual content. If you love creating how-to guides, sharing step-by-step tips, or just inspiring people with great images, Pinterest is worth considering.

Unlike social platforms that thrive on fast-moving content, Pinterest is more of a slow burn. A good pin can bring traffic to your content for months or even years. Just be sure to make eye-catching images, because this is a platform where visuals really matter.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If you love storytelling, go for YouTube.

If you want quick, fun videos, try TikTok (while it lasts).

If you enjoy photography or short videos, Instagram is a solid choice.

If you like writing and community-building, Facebook is great.

If you’re into sharing ideas and inspiration, Pinterest is your spot.

The best part? You don’t have to pick just one! Many influencers post across multiple platforms to reach different audiences. Start where you feel most comfortable, and see where it takes you.

How Much Money Can You Make?

It’s time to talk moolah. So, how exactly does one make money by sharing knitting tutorials or gourmet recipes online anyway?

Let’s unravel the threads of influencer income and see where the golden stitches are.

Ways to Earn: Turning Likes into Loot

1. Sponsored Posts: Imagine a brand paying you to showcase their product—like featuring a cozy blanket from a company in your next knitting video. Brands collaborate with influencers to reach their audience authentically.
2. Affiliate Marketing: Share special links to products you love, and when your followers make a purchase through your linkA link, or hyperlink, is a tool used in electronic documents and websites to jump from one online lo... More, you earn a commission. It’s like being a virtual shop assistant, guiding your audience to items they’ll adore.
3. Selling Products or Services: Got a knack for crafting? Sell your handmade goods or offer online classes. Platforms like Etsy or Teachable can help you reach a broader audience eager to learn from your expertise.
4. Ad Revenue: Platforms like YouTube share advertising profits with content creators. The more views your videos get, the more ad revenue trickles in. It’s like earning royalties every time someone watches your content.

Earning Potential: From Pocket Change to Plush Cushions

Earnings can vary widely based on factors like follower count, engagement rates, and niche.

Here’s a general idea of what influencers can make per sponsored post, a common way influencers monetize their content:

• Nano-influencers (1,000–10,000 followers): Up to $100 per post.
• Micro-influencers (10,000–50,000 followers): Between $200 and $800 per post.
• Mid-tier influencers (50,000–100,000 followers): From $500 to $5,000 per post.
• Macro-influencers (100,000–1,000,000 followers): Earnings can range from $700 to $900 per post.
• Mega-influencers (1,000,000+ followers): Posts can fetch $5,000 to $100,000+ (seriously!).

Income from affiliate marketing, product sales, and ad revenue can add to your earnings.

For instance, the average affiliate marketer earns about $8,038 per month, though this varies based on traffic and niche.

Remember, while the potential earnings are enticing, the true joy comes from sharing your passions and connecting with a community that appreciates your unique voice.

So, whether you’re earning enough to buy a fancy cup of coffee or fund a dream vacation, the journey of influencing offers both personal and financial rewards.

7 Steps to Get Started

Becoming a senior influencer might sound intimidating, like trying to set up a new Wi-FiWi-Fi, short for Wireless Fidelity, revolutionizes connectivity by enabling devices to access the in... More routerA router is a device that helps connect all your gadgets, like computers, smartphones, and smart hom... More or figuring out where all your socks disappear to in the laundry.

But don’t panic! You don’t need to master every platform or trend—just follow these steps, and soon, you’ll be sharing your wisdom, humor, and strong opinions with the world.

1. Define Your Niche: What’s Your Thing?

Before you post your first “Good morning, world!” selfie, figure out what you actually want to share.

Love gardening? Start there.

Have a talent for turning leftovers into gourmet meals? The internet needs you.

Maybe you just have a lot of opinions about modern technology (seriously, why does every remote have 47 buttons?).

Pick a topic you’re excited about—because if you love it, chances are, other people will too.

2. Pick Your Platform(s): Where Do You Want to Shine?

Trying to be on every platform at once is like signing up for five different exercise classes—exciting at first, exhausting by day two.

Start with one or two platforms that fit your style. Review the section on platforms to see which one makes the most sense for you. Then, pick your poison, and go all in!

3. Set Up Your Profile: First Impressions Matter

Your profile is your online handshake—except without the awkward “Am I squeezing too hard?” moment.

Choose a friendly, clear profile picture (a real one, not that blurry photo from 1998). Write a bio that tells people who you are and what you’re about.

Something like: “Retired teacher sharing life hacks, funny stories, and strong opinions about how coffee should be made.” People should know right away why they should follow you.

4. Create High-Quality Content: Lights, Camera, Action!

You don’t need Hollywood production value, but let’s at least aim for not looking like a ransom video.

Good lighting makes a difference (face a window, don’t sit in a dark corner like you’re plotting a heist).

Clear audio helps too—people don’t want to strain their ears trying to hear you over the neighbor’s lawn mower.

And most importantly, be you. The internet is full of people trying to be someone else. Authenticity is your superpower.

5. Engage with Your Audience: Talk to the People!

Being an influencer isn’t just about posting and vanishing like a magician. Respond to comments. Answer questions.

If someone tells you they loved your video about organizing a junk drawer, ask them if they ever found that missing tape measure.

Interaction builds community, and community keeps people coming back.

6. Collaborate with Others: Make New Friends (and Maybe Some Money)

Two influencers are better than one. Team up with people in your niche, whether it’s a fellow gardening enthusiast, a tech-loving grandparent, or someone who also believes that socks and sandals can be stylish (questionable, but you do you).

Collaborations help you reach new audiences and make the whole experience more fun.

7. Be Consistent: Show Up Regularly

Posting once every three months is a great way to make sure no one remembers you. The internet moves fast—stay in the game by posting regularly.

You don’t have to be glued to your phone, but having a schedule helps. Whether it’s twice a week or every day, find a rhythm that works for you and stick with it.

And that’s it! Well, not it—there’s plenty more to learn, but these steps will get you rolling.

The key is to start. Your audience is out there, waiting to be entertained, educated, or just reassured that they’re not the only ones confused by modern appliance buttons.

Challenges and Tips for Success

Becoming a senior influencer isn’t all fun and free products. (Though, let’s be honest, the possibility of scoring free snacks or a comfy pair of slippers is pretty appealing.)

Like anything new, it comes with a few challenges. But don’t worry—you’ve tackled far trickier things in life, like fixing a paper jam in a printer or figuring out why your TV remote suddenly controls the neighbor’s garage door.

Challenges: The Bumps in the Influencer Road

Learning New Technology and Platforms
Let’s face it—social media apps aren’t always the simplest things to use. Every platform has its quirks, and just when you think you’ve figured one out, they roll out a new update to keep you on your toes.

The good news? You don’t need to know everything. Start with the basics, and GoogleGoogle is a multinational technology company known for its internet-related products and services, i... More (or a helpful grandkid) can handle the rest.

Staying Consistent with Content Creation
Posting regularly is key to building an audience, but life happens. Maybe you get busy, maybe you forget, or maybe you’d rather watch an episode of Murder, She Wrote than film another video.

The trick? Find a schedule that works for you. Even once a week is better than nothing.

Managing Negative Comments (Though Less Common for Seniors)
Trolls are out there, lurking like that one neighbor who always has something to say about your lawn.

But here’s the secret: the internet tends to be nicer to seniors. People love a wise, funny, no-nonsense personality.

That said, if someone does decide to be rude, you have two choices—ignore them or replyReply is a common feature in communication platforms and email clients that allows users to respond ... More with a level of wit so sharp it makes them rethink their life choices. (Or, you know, just block them. That works too.)

Tips for Success: How to Stay on Top of Your Game

Stay Authentic: Be Yourself, But Online
People follow influencers because they like them—not because they’re perfect.

You don’t need fancy backdrops or professional-grade lighting. Just be you.

Whether that means sharing your best cookie recipe, your take on modern fashion (“Why are all the jeans ripped? Are they on sale?”), or your foolproof way to get a good night’s sleep, authenticity wins every time.

Learn the Basics of Photo & Video Editing
No, you don’t need Hollywood-level skills, but a little editing goes a long way.

Want to brighten up a photo? Or need to trim a video so people don’t have to watch you fumble with the camera for the first 10 seconds?

Apps like Canva, CapCut, and iMovie make it simple—plus, playing around with them is way more fun than doomscrolling to find the 127^th “Breaking News” story of the day.

Network with Other Influencers
Influencing doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Connect with others in your niche!

Comment on their posts, join online communities, or even team up for collaborations. (Because two seniors debating the best way to make a grilled cheese? That’s viral content waiting to happen.)

Keep Learning: Trends and Platform Changes Happen—Often
Social mediaSocial media refers to online platforms and websites that enable users to create, share, and interac... More changes a lot. What’s popular today might be old news tomorrow.

But don’t stress—just keep an eye on what’s happening. Follow a few influencers in your space, pay attention to what’s trending, and remember: you don’t have to hop on every trend.

Some trends are best left to the younger crowd (looking at you, bizarre TikTok dances).

Go Forth and Influence!

So, there you have it—you’re now armed with the knowledge (and hopefully the confidence) to take the internet by storm.

Whether you’re sharing life wisdom, cooking tips, or just hilariously ranting about modern gadgets that require an engineering degree to turn on, there’s an audience out there waiting for you.

Will you become an overnight sensation? Probably not.

Will you at least have a blast, make new connections, and possibly score some free goodies along the way? If you stick with it, the odds are in your favor!

So grab your phone, hit record, and remember: the internet has seen enough 20-somethings dancing. It’s time for some real wisdom, real laughs, and real experience. The world needs more senior influencers—and you may be just the person for the job.

Now go show ‘em how it’s done!