Seniors and Technology: Enhancing Quality of Life Through Digital Solutions
What is technology and how does it benefit seniors? Computer and mobile device-based technologies are quickly becoming vital for everyday life. Smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices are changing how we communicate and get information. Smart home equipment and telehealth also improve our health and quality of life. Older adults are now the fastest-growing community of computer and internet users. So, how do older adults incorporate technology into their everyday lives?
Reasons Seniors Struggle with Technology
Before we discuss the benefits, let's talk about why seniors struggle with technology. Older adults often face challenges in incorporating digital technologies into their everyday lives.
Challenges include:
- Lack of Familiarity- Often, familiarity, or lack of, holds people back from trying new things. This is especially true when it comes to technology. There is a learning curve, but, as with anything new, giving it a try is the best way to learn.
- Fear of Internet Safety- Many seniors struggle with safety anxiety when it comes to internet usage. The best way to eliminate this anxiety is to learn online safety strategies.
- Lack of Technological Skills- With technology advancing quickly, learning how to use new devices can be challenging. But technology is getting easier to use and making everyday life more manageable.
- Negativity Around the Use of Social Media- It's easy to focus on the downside of social media, but platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube keep us connected with loved ones.
- They Don’t Think They Need It- Older adults sometimes think they don’t need modern technology since they didn’t have it in the past. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of technology.
Benefits of Technology for Seniors
Technology can greatly improve the lives of older people and make a big difference. We can categorize the benefits of technology in the following ways.
Technology Improves Social Wellness
Seniors can stay connected with loved ones and the community through video calls, messaging, and social media. This helps reduce feelings of social isolation and improves feelings of interconnectedness. Studies show that there are adverse health impacts of social isolation. Not being social can lead to heart disease and stroke. It contributes to physical waring, socioeconomic regression, and mental decline.
Using technology, seniors can overcome geographical or physical mobility barriers. The digital world makes it easier to connect with places difficult to visit.
Technology Improves Mental and Physical Wellbeing
Older adults can keep their minds active by using streaming services, podcasts, audiobooks, and online games. This improves their cognition and memory. Digital entertainment reduces boredom which can lead to depression and anxiety.
Seniors can participate in online exercise classes in the comfort of their homes. Digital fitness trackers make it fun and easy to track movement and exercise
Technology Allows Us to Stay Informed
Digital technology makes staying up-to-date with news and current events easy and immediate. Seniors can quickly access newspapers and magazines, and watch news channels from their smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Technology Increases Independence
Many devices improve safety and help people live independently for longer. Older adults can stay independent longer by using medical devices that alert others in emergencies. They can also shop online and have items delivered. Seniors can feel safe at home with security systems, alarms, and video cameras.
Technology Provides Easy Access to Healthcare
From medication reminders to telehealth, it is much easier to keep on top of your health. Digital reminders, including voice-activated ones, help people remember medications and appointments. Health monitoring lets providers review health details and make informed decisions about care.
Telehealth makes it easier to see specialized providers, even if they are far away. With the increased usage of telehealth, people without transportation can still get healthcare.
Technology Tips For Safe and Easy Use
- Use strong passwords and change them frequently
- Adjust phone and tablet settings for easy reading
- Keep anti-virus software updated
- Don’t reply to emails, texts, or direct messages from people you don’t know