If you can’t imagine your life without technology, then you’re not alone. But while technology has advanced in ways that people could only have dreamed of just a few decades ago, leaving younger generations struggling to conjure up images of what living tech-free might look like, there are many older people in society who remember it all too well. And for them, especially elderly individuals who live alone, in nursing homes, or in other care settings away from their families, the power of technology is having even more of an impact.
The Growing Role of Tech in Elderly Care
Technology and its many uses have become so widespread that it’s hard to find an industry that doesn’t make use of it somehow, and nursing homes are no different. Technology is playing a growing role in senior care, health, and wellbeing across the world. While for us, it might seem like nothing to write home about, as we’re so used to being connected all the time, the simple ability to make a video call to friends and family could be life-changing for an older person who didn’t grow up with this kind of technology at their fingertips.
How Technology Keeps Seniors Connected
Before we were all as connected as we are today, it was a challenge for older people to stay in contact with their friends and family members. They would have to wait for phone calls or visits, which may not have been convenient at times. On the other hand, technology has helped to improve the quality of life, social life, and family connections of many older people. Nursing homes are getting increasing access to smartphones, computers, and other devices that residents can use to stay in contact with family and friends, reducing the risk of isolation. Quality care homes, like valeviewheights.com, combine stimulating activities, a clean, safe, and engaging environment, and a homely feel with encouraging residents to stay connected to their loved ones using technology.
Barriers to Using Tech to Stay Connected to an Elderly Loved One
Some seniors have not used modern technology before, either through not having a good understanding of it, or a fear of not being able to use it. So, there may be some barriers to overcome if you want to help an older relative stay connected to friends and family using technology. It’s worth taking the time to help them figure out how to use a basic smartphone or tablet. Start small, to avoid confusing or overwhelming them. Choose one that has a simple, easy-to-use interface and that you’re familiar with too, so that you can help them troubleshoot and solve any problems they have, and easily answer any questions. Many devices today have settings designed to make them easier for older people to use, such as larger text settings.
If you’re worried about an elderly loved one and their ability to stay connected to family and friends, you’ll be glad to know that technology is becoming more senior-friendly. More older people today have smartphones and similar devices, allowing them to avoid loneliness, and stay in touch with people who care about them.
