How Can Seniors Embrace Technology?

The pace of change with technology is mind-boggling, even for those highly adept with electronics. Just when you feel comfortable with a program, device or social media page, something changes. You click “update” and now, your smart phone functions differently. It can be frustrating for all of us, including for senior loved ones, rendering them unable to take advantage of the benefits of technology.

In the lightning speed of daily life, it is important to consider a few key concepts related to seniors using technology: Senior couple using tablet

Many seniors are retired, so their exposure to advances in technology may be reduced.
When coaching seniors in technology concepts, remember that the aging brain can sometimes process information differently than before. Be patient.
Vision and fine motor skills play a key role in the use of technology. It requires effort to visually locate small icons, X’s or buttons, then tap just the right area with good aim on a smart phone or point and click with a mouse.
The piles of passwords required to access everything electronic is a constant challenge. One of the easiest, low-tech solutions is to purchase an address book from a dollar store and use the alphabetized tabs to help your senior loved one keep track of usernames and passwords.

So what technology is most in-demand for seniors? Let’s review some electronics that look different than they used to but can improve a senior’s quality of life.

Television

With the advent of smart TVs and the use of streaming apps, operating the television for a senior is a different ballgame. First, evaluating how many remote controls are required for the TV and related equipment is a useful initial step. We have all seen the dizzying pile of remotes and how you must push THIS button to turn the TV on, then THAT button for the volume, etc. The universal remote is a wonderful invention. When programmed correctly by the family technology wizard, you can tuck away the stockpile of remotes and have your senior use one single universal remote for all TV functioning. Not only does a universal remote streamline the clutter and confusion, some models are more senior friendly by offering larger buttons and contrasting colors that are easier to see, feel and manipulate.

Desktop/Laptop Computers and Printers

For seniors who may have more difficulty getting out of the house to socialize or shop, computers offer a means to connect with people, purchase items for delivery and surf the internet for entertainment and research. Initially, a senior loved one may need assistance with setting up internet access. Then, the computer and printer basics may need to be set up for proper connectivity. Finally, once all the “housekeeping” is complete, your senior loved one may need a tutorial and supervised practice with accessing pertinent computer functions including:

use of the camera to video chat with family and friends
setting up and navigating social media pages
finding shopping sites to order and request delivery of groceries, prescriptions and retail items
accessing medical records online
paying bills electronically
sending and receiving emails
warnings for what NOT to click on to avoid scams

Tablets

Tablets such as iPad, Kindle, Galaxy and Surface Pro can provide a lightweight and mobile option to perform many of the same functions as a computer/laptop including video chatting with family, surfing the internet, browsing pictures, shopping and reading. Overall, tablets are less cumbersome and might be the better choice for some seniors instead of a computer or laptop.

Smart Phones

Smart phones are a constant companion, but given their smaller size, can be more difficult to see and operate for seniors. There are several phones on the market that are constructed specifically for seniors and others who may have difficulty with technology. Some helpful smart phone features include:

mapping features, such as Google Maps Location Sharing or the Life360 app, allow children to monitor whereabouts of senior family members and vice-versa
calendar and alarm features for appointment reminders and medication schedules
ability for senior loved one and family to reach each other
one touch emergency phone call capability

Not only does Visiting Angels provide individualized in-home care, such as support with meals and bathing, but also offers a unique service called the Social Care Program. The purpose of the Social Care Program is to help seniors stay connected via the use of technology. If you would like to learn more about our Social Care Program, please contact us for more information.