Technology is progress. We can see how far we have come by looking back at old gadgets and devices and seeing how they have changed through the years. There’s a notable increase in the usage of smart gadgets and other tech amongst senior citizens, which raises even more optimism as to why we should encourage their use.
Despite its perceived adverse effects on society, modern technology has positively improved our way of life. For example, technology makes it easier for seniors living independently to communicate with their loved ones, take care of the house, and even get medical help if they need it.
Introducing New Devices to Seniors
Not all seniors will embrace this new change. When introducing a new device, like an iPad or a digital home assistant, begin with a positive approach and list its benefits. Also, be open to the thought that they might reject these things initially, so be patient and keep reassuring them gradually until they finally embrace them.
Once they agree to use them, start with simple gadgets that are fun to use, which they’ll quickly learn about. Doing this keeps their mind open to the possibility of being introduced to more options in the future, no matter how complicated they may seem at first, as long as it makes their life easier.
Teach them how to use the gadgets themselves, and don’t forget to mention how they should keep their devices secure and not be taken advantage of.
Tech Innovations for Seniors
1. Wi-Fi
The internet is a necessity. In this day and age, almost nothing happens without the internet being involved somehow. The older generation didn’t grow up with it, so they may not have embraced our connected world, even though it has proven essential as the years go by.
Seniors may not have many internet needs, so work with them and service providers to find the most suitable package for them. A service provider will also be able to monitor their activity and keep track of any potential cyber threats they may face.
2. Cell Phones
The world of landlines has virtually disappeared, with most of them being reserved for commercial businesses. Luckily, cell phones have become more affordable and available as time goes by. In the same way that cell phones are almost a necessity for the young generation, they are beneficial for the elderly.
Again, some seniors may be hesitant to use a cell phone. As my grandfather says, “What do you need to call me all the time for?!” The answer is peace of mind. If seniors face a medical emergency or get into some kind of trouble, the cell phone is there to call for help.
It’s no wonder that some seniors can use some of the latest smartphones comfortably, and they customize the features in them to help them operate them seamlessly. Some may prefer the simple handsets that have been customized for seniors. These have a flashlight, big buttons, big font size, and bright screens, making them a more practical option for those with sight issues.
3. Fitness Trackers
With the rise in health concerns in the senior age group, more wearable tech devices have been developed to help seniors live a healthy lifestyle. The most popular inventions for these are smartwatches. Besides fitness, they can also monitor your sleeping patterns, heart rate, blood pressure, daily steps, reminder checks on when to eat, and easily connect to a smartphone.
These gadgets have raised more awareness amongst seniors to keep their health in check and recruit their friends into a healthy lifestyle. Of course, the devices become more expensive if you want more features.
4. Home Safety Devices
Home safety should be a priority, especially for seniors living independently. Furthermore, it gives you peace of mind if you know there are automated systems that are quick to send alerts to you in case of potential dangers.
- Get automated medical alert systems, fall detection sensors, etc., for health emergencies.
- Install doorbell camera systems, motion sensor lights, surveillance cameras, fire alert systems, fingerprint door locks, alarms, etc. for security purposes
Besides that, remove any hazardous object that may cause falls and set up safety measures that help your seniors move around their homes safely.
5. Tablets
Entertainment in their day-to-day activities are also important. Seniors Citizens also can use tech like tablets for reading your favorite books, news, shopping, telemedicine, research, playing games, social networking, weather updates, etc.
The good thing is that tablets are light, mobile, easy to operate, and less complicated than laptops. Besides, you can also add extra apps that track your medication and send crucial reminders like when to take your medicine and when to order for refill or doctor appointments.
6. E-readers
While some still prefer printed books, they eventually make your home more cluttered. Just like movies, it’s tough to re-read a book you have already read. For this reason, bookworms have found a soft spot for e-readers.
You can access thousands of books online from anywhere in the world. Again, these devices are light, light and font adjustable, and mobile. Some are even waterproof, so you won’t have to worry if you go to the beach or accidentally spill something on it at home.
7. GPS Insoles
If your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s, then this product will come in handy for you. Like a car tracker, GPS insoles can be safely hidden in the shoes. Depending on the settings you choose, they will send you an update of the person’s location on an online map in the company’s mobile app. If the person leaves the perimeter that has been set, the device will immediately notify you. Remember that you will have to pay for this service to keep it working.
Technology has a solution for almost everything we do right now. It’s used right from the manufacturing process to the end products of the items we depend on daily living. It’s almost become a basic need in modern society regardless of age or location. Get your loved ones acquainted with some of these modern technologies.
About the Author
Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.
