For many seniors, technology can be quite scary. Things have advanced so quickly in recent years that it can be difficult for them to keep up. However, there are an increasing number of elderly people who are embracing these new solutions.
For families and caregivers, technological devices such as medical alert devices and smartphones, are great ways to ensure elderly loved ones are safe and cared for. There are so many technologies that can be used to help individuals age in place. In addition, they can ease the transition to old age because they can improve their overall quality of living, and help to avoid costly nursing home stays or unnecessary visits to the emergency room.
In this post, we’ll introduce some examples of technology that can help older people, look at how they work, and discover the benefits they offer.
Mobile Phones
The most common users of mobile phones are likely the younger generation, however, there is a percentage of older people who use smartphones regularly too.
Mobile phones are becoming increasingly important for elderly people as more and more of them are moving away from traditional landline telephones. They can be used to communicate with friends and family, and call for help in an emergency. There is also a wide range of apps that can be downloaded to help the elderly play games or puzzles, keep track of their steps, and capture special moments with the camera. In addition, there are apps that help you keep your brain active and for those with dementia, there are sensory apps.
Tablets
The iPad was launched in 2012 and since that moment, tablets have become popular devices in households around the world. You can take a tablet with you anywhere you go and access the internet quickly.
For those who are elderly, there are a number of benefits:
- The screens are bigger which is ideal for those with deteriorating eyesight
- They can be used for streaming videos and films
- Tablets tend to be more affordable than PCs or laptops
- You can purchase them in a range of sizes which makes them very portable
Fitness Technology
As we get older, it’s important to stay fit and healthy. The healthier you are, the less chance you have of developing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
Using modern technology, elderly people can monitor their daily activities and track progress, for example, by using a smart watch.
With a smart watch, you can:
- Track the number of steps you take every day
- Track how many calories you burn
- Track your heart rate
- Track sleeping patterns
Health and Mobility Devices
The marketplace for health and mobility devices is huge. One very popular device is a life-saving personal alarm system. Also known as medical alert devices, they allow disabled and older people to continue living independently in their own homes.
Medical alert devices ensure that help can be summoned immediately if you suffer a fall or feel unwell.
Health monitoring is also very reassuring for many older people and their loved ones. For example, it’s possible to have blood pressure or heart rate monitor in the home. It will take measurements regularly so that doctors and carers can check on a person’s condition.
Other examples of mobility technology include:
- Stairlifts
- Electric wheelchairs
- Mobility scooters
Apps
There are lots of different apps that can be downloaded for a mobile phone or tablet. They are available for both Apple and Android devices. Some of the most common types of apps include:
- Music, film, and TV: There is a wide range of streaming apps to choose from. Streaming allows you to transmit data from the internet directly onto a device. Some of the more popular streaming services include Netflix, Spotify, HBOMax, Amazon Prime, and DisneyPlus.
- Shopping: An increasing number of high street shops have their own apps. Seniors can place orders without leaving home.
- Social Media: Social media apps are great for keeping in touch with friends and family. Facebook is the most obvious platform, but there’s also Zoom or WhatsApp.
- Games: Playing games online helps prevent boredom and keep the brain active.
- Weather apps: Check what the weather is doing anywhere in the world with just a few clicks.
- News apps: You’ll have no problem finding the news you’re looking for as all major TV news outlets and newspapers have apps.
The Benefits of Technology for Seniors
Socialization
Thanks to technology, we can communicate and socialize with very little effort. For seniors, devices can be programmed to work around their needs, for example, displays that include larger buttons, larger icons, and brighter screens. In addition, there’s the option for emails, texts, and documents to be read out loud by the device.
Safety
Thanks to technology, no senior has to be afraid of being alone in their own home. Family members don’t have to constantly worry about their safety. Monitoring devices can do almost everything including monitoring a person’s location, their motion, sleep, and care patterns, and reminding wearers that they have to take their medication.
Entertainment
As well as movie and TV streaming services, there are also numerous game and hobby apps that can be downloaded onto a senior’s phone.
Convenience
Thanks to modern technology, shopping for groceries and other items online or using an app is effortless. The goods you buy can be delivered directly to your home.
Final Thoughts
All the technology mentioned in this post can benefit older people by improving their mental and physical well being. In addition, it improves their social lives, helps prevent loneliness, makes it easier to shop, manage bills, and ease the strain on their bodies.