Technology is an ever-evolving aspect of our lives. It’s everywhere – from smartphones to laptops, smart speakers to smart homes – something that we’ve learnt to embrace as a crucial part of our everyday lives. As younger, tech savvy generations tend to navigate their way effortlessly through the ever-changing technology landscape, the older generation may find it more challenging, confusing and even intimidating – choosing to avoid it altogether. In a technology driven society, embracing ‘digital’ actually comes with great benefits and could well make life a lot easier for many seniors.
Using technology is a great way to stay in touch with family, grandkids and friends. With a variety of apps now available on mobile phones and desktop computers, such as Skype, Zoom, Whatsapp and FaceTime, seniors can stay connected with loved ones at the touch of a button. With many families today living in other states or countries, keeping in touch is often challenging, but with the assistance of technology, families are able to make video calls and see loved ones face-to-face, no matter how far away they live. Social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram are also great ways to stay up to date with the latest news and communicate with friends and family.
The convenience of technology can make life easier, especially when it comes to creating tasks like grocery shopping or medication management. Buying groceries online for example and having them delivered straight to your door, is a welcome reprieve from having to navigate a store if mobility is an issue. Additional technology around the home can also be helpful for seniors. Devices such as Google Home or Alexa are great virtual assistants when your Care Professional has left for the day. These smart technology devices can control heating and cooling, lighting, monitor security systems, turn on your TV or oven and so much more. Our dedicated Care Professionals will gladly assist with helping you navigate the digital world and set you up on smart devices in the home.
Virtual assistants such as these are also great for health monitoring, giving medication reminders, or making emergency calls. For seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, virtual assistants can support things like music therapy by providing an effortless way to play music on demand.
It’s no secret that technology can be daunting and overwhelming for many, especially for seniors who may not have grown up with the same digital tools we have today. There are a variety of resources out there, like community tech classes or help hotlines, that seniors can use to get extra support and learn how to use technology. In addition to this, many companies and products now offer senior-friendly features, like larger text and buttons, or voice-activation, which can make using technology much easier.
Smartphones and tablets can also be heaps of fun and offer social and cognitive stimulation from the comfort of your own home or when on-the-go. Books are now also at the ready, whether you want to read on a screen or listen to an audiobook. Online games like Solitaire, Sudoku or crosswords can be enjoyed on your own but can also be played in virtual groups like Wordle or Words with Friends to add a little competitive edge to your gaming, while keeping you connected with others.
That said, it’s important to embrace technology in today’s world, even if it scares you. From staying in touch with loved ones to making life easier and more convenient, there are so many benefits to using technology.
With the support and guidance from your Home Care Assistance Care Professional, you will gain the confidence you need to make the most of what technology has to offer. So, whether you love technology or hate it, there’s no denying that it’s an important aspect of our lives.
Support of a home care company like Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefit and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance has viable solutions when it comes to supporting independent living. For more information, get in touch with a Home Care Assistance near me today.
