Abstract
We examine the media use in social relationship management of a group of highly educated and socially connected older adults aged 65+ in Switzerland. Based on a framework taking into account life-span theories of ageing and environmental factors we see older adults as active agents, shaping their social relationships in a polymedia environment. Drawing on empirical data we find that considering timing, content, etiquette and comfort guided our informants' choices according to situation and communication partner. It becomes clear that older adults consider their temporal and emotional resources in their interaction with others, in line with established life-span theories of ageing. WhatsApp has an especially positive and empowering significance, allowing spontaneous and easy communication of joyful messages between communication partners. The article contributes to research that combines established life-span perspectives on ageing with current environmental theories and provides evidence, that the needs, motivations and goals of older adults, as suggested by the socio-emotional selectivity theory and strategies used to reach these goals, as stated by the selection, optimization and compensation framework, remain unchanged in technologically shaped environments.