Tech Crunch reports that 1/3 of the senior population was left behind by the digital revolution. It is common for seniors to be afraid of technology. However, staying offline also means that these seniors miss out on the numerous benefits of technology. Here are some of the benefits of technology for seniors. 

6 Reasons To Teach Seniors How To Use Technology

1 – Social Connection

Staying connected with family and old friends is made easier by technology. Seniors, especially now that they need to isolate, can maintain their social lives through video chats, chats, and social media. They can stay updated on their family’s activities, or have virtual dinner dates with them. Similarly, they can connect with other like-minded individuals through social media groups and join discussions about things they’re interested in. Technology can help seniors stay socially active, which is a crucial component of maintaining a healthy mind and body. 

2 – Physical Activity

Nowadays, seniors are confined to their living spaces, where they most likely stay seated or laying down. Decreased physical activity may lead to weaker immune system. Technology in the form of video games can help seniors not only stay entertained but also engaged in physical and mental activities. They could engage in light exercise through games that require dancing, for example. They can also play their favorite games like Mahjong, which they can play with friends or family members. 

3 – Health Tracking

Seniors, with their failing memories, have to keep track of so many pills and doctors’ appointments daily. Forgetting to take their medicine could be debilitating for those with serious conditions. Teaching seniors to use health tracking tools could be helpful for them and their caregivers, so that they don’t forget about medications or mistakenly take the wrong one. A great example is CareClinic, which not only allows you to set reminders for every pill, but also lets you keep track of symptoms and physical activities.

4 – Safety And Emergency Needs

Patient falls is a major concern in geriatric care. Seniors who live alone are especially at risk of falls, which could be debilitating at their age. A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is an example of a technology that is simple enough for seniors to use yet extremely useful for emergencies. Seniors can call for help with one push of a button and emergency responders will respond wherever they are. 

5 – Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic has discouraged seniors from going to their regular check-ups for fear of contracting the virus in healthcare facilities. While they are indeed staying safe from COVID-19, they are, unfortunately, sacrificing their overall health. This should not be the case, however, because numerous healthcare facilities offer telemedicine. When seniors know how to use the computer, they can schedule their check-ups and attend the virtual appointments on their own. 

6 – Safe Shopping 

Seniors especially need to take advantage of online shopping options. So many establishments now offer delivery. Seniors can get their groceries, medication, and other needs delivered to their doorstep when they can navigate websites or shopping apps. They will not need to ask others to buy their needs for them nor do they need to risk their health to get their medication. Once seniors learn to navigate websites or apps, all these will be a breeze. 

Taking the time to teach them how to use technology can improve seniors’ quality of life in multiple ways, whether they are living alone, with family, or in a facility. Seniors don’t need to be experts at computers; they just need to get rid of their fear and know the basics in order to experience these six benefits of technology.