The senior stars of TikTok

The Future. TikTok has become a bridge between two unlikely generations. As young people turn their grandparents into TikTok stars, they’re helping them cash in on the platform. The collaborative videos not only generate extra income, but also strengthen the relationship between grandchild and grandparent — and, who knows, might even boost grandma’s life expectancy.

Age’s got nothing on them
According to The Wall Street Journal, old folks are racking up views on TikTok because they stand out on the app, which is mostly filled with teenagers.

• Brands are hiring seniors to promote toys, laundry detergent, and other products.
• Grandkids are working behind the scenes, making deals with advertisers, responding to fan comments, and teaching their elders the latest TikTok dances.
• Some grandparents split the money with their grandchildren, while others spend it on them. “If I don’t spend it now, what am I going to do?” muses Dolores Paolino, 89, who has 2.4 million TikTok followers.

Becoming classic > getting older
TikTok keeps seniors busy and close to their grandchildren. Some plan to engage with it as long as they can.

“Maybe that’s why I’m living so long,” reflects Lillian Droniak, 92, “because God says: She’s having fun and people love her.”