Technology is everywhere. What we think of technology, smartphone and smart homes, 5G and wireless, isn’t the only type of technology out there, but it definitely presents a unique set of challenges for those that have seen this kind of tech develop later on in their lives. Digital natives have no problem navigating social media and the rest of the internet, but that’s not the case for many older adults.
But just because technology is new and difficult to approach for some does not mean that it can’t be helpful. There are a lot of devices and apps out there designed to help seniors. Some are meant for communication, such as FaceTime and Zoom. Others can do much more, such as detect falls, alert emergency services if someone is unable to get out of bed, or even detect leaks to make home repairs easier for seniors to get started.
Technology is designed to make life easier, but that doesn’t mean that it’s without complications or issues. Some of these issues are easily overcome, but others require special attention on our part. For example, technology has certainly led to a rise in fraudulent activity and scams that target seniors. We’ve seen this take place over the phone, through email, and in other ways. Seniors aren’t alone in facing issues in these areas, but because of their unique place in society and issues that are predominantly part of the aging process, seniors have been victimized over the years through these means. This continues to be an area that requires our special attention.
Cybersecurity is an important topic when it comes to seniors. Keeping personal information safe is vital for the emotional, financial, and physical wellbeing of everyone, ut because many seniors don’t have the same background as digital natives, it’s a new concept for many. If you have an older loved one that is using smart devices, a conversation about privacy, security, and safety might be helpful. There are a lot of ways to approach these conversations, but ultimately, you know your loved one better than anyone else. Talk about it in a way that you believe will work. If you’re unsure of how to do so, please don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
As you can see, the latest and greatest in care technology can’t do it all. There are a lot of gaps to fill. Additionally, there is no replacement for high quality senior care. With all of the right apps and devices, someone can often stay in their own home on their own for longer, staving off the immediate need for care. This can be incredibly helpful, but technology can’t replace human contact.
In-home care can help bridge this gap. With care technology designed to help seniors stay in their homes for longer, in-home care can help even when technology isn’t quite enough. Additionally, in-home care provides companionship–again, something tech can’t ever fully account for. It’s a type of care designed both to help seniors meet all of their needs and stay right where they want to be.
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