Abstract
In this paper we discuss how social media can be used by older adults to enhance their quality of life. We develop a research model to investigate the factors that may affect the adoption of social media by older adults. This approach differs from previous information systems (IS) oriented adoption studies, since we focus on analyzing older adults' characteristics from biopsychosocial perspectives. Building on Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs model, we define older adult needs from a quality of life perspective. We then incorporate Maslow's model into a universal user adoption model with the constructs specifically adjusted to reflect the characteristics of older adults.