Woman, 93, who has been using Twitter since 2011, pens emotional farewell post because of her deteriorating eyesight – but thousands offer advice and plead for her to stay on the platform
- Muriel Wickenden who lives in Northamptonshire, has used Twitter since 2011
- The 93-year-old said she’s no longer using social media because of her eyesight
- Over 1,000 people commented on her post offering solutions for her to stay
An elderly woman who is no longer able to use social media because of her deteriorating eyesight has received an overwhelming stream of comments from people offering advice for ways that could help her to stay online.
Muriel Wickenden, 93, who lives in Northamptonshire, has gone viral on Twitter after posting about being unable to continue using the platform because of her poor vision.
Boasting almost 4,000 followers, Muriel explained that she isn’t able to read responses to messages, or able to see posts.
As many wrote sentimental messages saying goodbye to Muriel, who has been using Twitter since 2011, others flooded the post with advice for how Muriel could continue to use the platform.
Muriel Wickenden, 93, (pictured) who lives in Northamptonshire, sparked a discussion about using social media with poor eyesight
The 93-year-old penned an emotional post revealing she’s no longer able to see Twitter posts or able to respond to messages
Explaining her circumstance, Muriel wrote: ‘I am very sorry but I have to say goodbye to all my Twitter friends. I have tried all sorts of ways to read the posts but my eyesight has deteriorated so much, I find I am unable to read or reply to you.
‘I shall miss you all, thank you for everything. Bless you, wish you all well x’
The 93-year-old has gained a legion of followers on Twitter from her posts, which include everything from gardening to politics and culture.
Many responded and admitted they’re disappointed to see her leave the social media platform.
One person penned: ‘Thank you for the laughs you have given Twitter over the years; you will be missed. Stay safe and all the very best,’ while another wrote: ‘Dear Muriel, how you will be missed. Love you dear, dear friend’
A third added: ‘Nothing left in this world worth seeing Muriel… spend time with your family and loved ones. God bless and it was pleasure having you here.’
Muriel (pictured) boasts almost 4,000 followers on Twitter and often posts about everything from gardening, politics and culture
Many people wrote comments saying their goodbyes to Muriel and showing appreciation for her years of posting
Others were quick to offer solutions to how Muriel could adapt Twitter to be able to continue using it, despite her deteriorating eyesight.
‘I would be more than happy to have a chat with you – to help anyway in anyway I can – phone call or whatever suits you to discuss because I do understand that Twitter can be a lifeline and you shouldn’t have to step back from it because of your eyesight,’ wrote one.
Another commented: ‘Muriel I’m sorry to hear this as tech solutions business, I would suggest a large tablet or screen then changing the settings to make the font as large as possible. If you change your mind and decide to get one, I would happily come set this up for free for you, just get in touch.’
A third added: ‘Muriel please don’t go! Surely a friend could read and reply on your behalf and you could have a real laugh about some of the posts! Muriel, my father suffered with the same condition, he would be willing you on to keep going on here!’
Others shared solutions Muriel could try, including the size of Twitter posts and asking a friend to respond for her