More and more companies are focusing on bringing quality technology products to the senior population. That’s because this is a large population and some of the newest tech items are still relatively new to this demographic. It’s a population in need, and there’s a lot of room for financial profit, too.
Really, technology can do a lot for seniors. It improves communication, makes day to day life easier and safer, and can even help with ordering household items before we run out. The right tools can help us to live healthier lives, too. Learning how to use these tools is certainly advantageous, but that’s a lot easier to do for the younger population that grew up with computers, smart phones, and smart homes. Those who gained access to these items later in life don’t always adjust to using technology like they could simply because they have never needed to. This is not a necessary part of life for older folk because they lived so much of their life without these items. Learning can be a difficult task, or even seem like an unnecessary hassle to some people.
Depending on where you live, some of these classes are likely available nearby. Check out your local Department of Senior Services for resources available in your community. This can also be a great way to learn about other resources that might be nearby. Even if it has nothing to do with learning how to use technology to better serve the older population, your county’s Senior Services office will likely be able to provide you with an extensive list of supports in your area and help get you connected to what will work best for your family.
There has long been a barrier between the latest and greatest technology and senior adoption of these items. I discussed this not too long ago here. But whatever the reasons for not adopting technology might be, there are some clear barriers between most seniors and the most recent technological breakthroughs. Even if some items or programs can help seniors, not everyone is going to benefit from this.
Technology can be a great way to help your older loved one live a better life, but it’s not for everyone. And even if someone is using smart devices to help keep themselves safer and to stay in better communication with loved ones, there’s no replacing human contact. Study after study confirms that human contact is helpful for mental health, for seniors and everyone else. We aren’t meant to live alone but unfortunately, thousands of seniors spend a good deal of time alone because getting around is a lot more difficult than it used to be.
Technology can help improve communication, but it can’t replace a person. This is where things like in-home care are irreplaceable. This type of care allows someone to stay where they are, and have a trained caregiver come to them. Although caregivers perform a lot of tasks and help seniors with day to day activities needed for them to stay safe and healthy, one of the most important functions a caregiver provides is companionship.
We’d love to talk more about this if you’d like to learn more. Give us a call today to get started with the conversation.
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