There’s a reason why visuals are generally more popular than words; a number of reasons really. For marketing, in particular, visuals can trigger emotional recognition and rally action.
How? Well primarily, it’s important to factor in the target audience so here are 3 tips for using visual marketing to reach a senior market.
Authentic Representation
Seniors are a diverse group, each with their own stories and identities. So to authentically connect with them, ditch the stock photos and opt for imagery that reflects this fact. By showcasing real faces and real stories in your marketing, you demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusivity and respect for the individuality of every senior.
For example, say you’re promoting a fitness program for seniors. You want to feature images of actual participants of various ages, ethnicities and body types enjoying exercise together, not images of the same jacked one or two barely elderly people.
User-Centric Accessibility
Accessibility isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a non-negotiable part of designing visual experiences that truly resonate with anyone, including seniors. Tailor your marketing materials to the specific preferences and needs of the elderly. For digital content, you want intuitive navigation, larger font sizes, and high-contrast colors to enhance readability. In fact, consider incorporating interactive elements like voice commands or touch gestures to cover varying levels of tech-savviness. Moreover, add alternative formats such as audio descriptions or braille versions to physical media for those with visual impairments.
For example, many travel companies include a virtual tour of destinations with audio descriptions for those who prefer auditory information. And this is in addition to printed materials that have large, easy-to-read fonts and clear diagrams.
Evocative Storytelling
Like almost everyone else, many seniors are great appreciators of stories. Why not tap into this by crafting visual stories that resonate on a deeply emotional level? Instead of focusing solely on product features, weave narratives that evoke nostalgia, warmth, and connection. Show – rather than tell – with evocative imagery, heartfelt testimonials, or compelling video vignettes for a sense of empathy and authenticity that transcends mere marketing. Really, by making storytelling a key part of your marketing strategy, chances are you invite seniors to see themselves reflected in your brand narrative so that there’s an enduring connection with your brand built on shared values and experiences.
For example, a financial services firm could create a video series featuring retirees sharing their journeys to financial security, highlighting the importance of planning for retirement. Alternatively, a homecare agency could use imagery of seniors enjoying meaningful activities like gardening or spending time with grandchildren to show independence and quality of life. These stories humanize a brand.
Marketing that works makes an impression and often, when you center your target audience, visuals are the way to do that. Try out these tips for your business.