Tenby pensioner becomes world's oldest Facebook user

by Steven Mostyn - Dec 17 2010, 11:38

If the technology-based pastimes of a UK pensioner are anything to go by, cutting-edge gadgetry is not just for the younger generation and people are never too old to enjoy something new.

Specifically, 103-year-old Lillian Lowe of Tenby, Pembrokeshire, has become something of an overnight social networking star after she was lauded as the world’s oldest Facebook user.

The spotlight thrown across Ms Lowe—who’s tech knowledge extends to using her grandson’s iPad to access her profile—has led to more than 1,000 Facebook members peppering her with friend requests.

According to the retired hotelier and businesswoman, she regularly uses Facebook as a communication tool in order to keep in touch with close friends and family members, including two of her grandchildren who are presently attending the University of Cardiff in Wales.

“I like it very much, to see my grandchildren and speak to them, but it does waste a lot of time,” said Ms Lowe in a BBC report. “I have a number of friends—all my family, grandchildren, great grandchildren. I check up on my family. They send me message [about] what they’re doing, and to which parties they go.”

“I have a lot of time sitting alone, when you’re my age, I don’t go running around, and it’s lovely to use,” she added. “I use it just for amusement. I’m only a beginner. I do enjoy it, very much.”

Ms Lowe’s positioning as the world’s oldest Facebook member comes after the sad July death of 104-year-old Facebook user Ivy Bean of Bradford.

Around the Web