Technology is constantly growing and becoming much more powerful. Algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning have a clear impact on all age groups. In light of technological advancements, many seniors are slowly adapting to the use of tech. Technology makes learning easier for older adults because they can use it in almost all areas of their lives. Here are some reasons seniors should adopt technology and some useful electronic gadgets they can take advantage of.
Reasons why seniors should embrace technology
With interactive digital education, therapeutic programs, and challenging virtual puzzles, technology helps seniors become self-sufficient. Here are some more reasons why seniors should embrace technology:
- The use of technology can facilitate better interpersonal relationships for seniors, enhancing and enriching their lives.
- Technology can support older adults’ emotional well-being by overcoming mental health issues like depression and loneliness.
- Caregivers can keep their parents safe by using wearable devices such as watches connected to GPS tracking and health monitoring systems.
- Using technology, seniors can become self-sufficient and accomplish daily tasks without leaving the house.
Useful technologies for seniors
There are several electronic devices designed to help our seniors with the daily activities of life, making their lives more convenient and safe. These devices offer multiple exciting features that we already use. Here are a few examples;
● Elders’ Phones
The market already offers a wide choice of “phones for seniors” with larger keys, simplified interfaces, and emergency response buttons. Seniors can access technology more easily and get medical assistance more quickly and efficiently with their help.
● Voice Assistants
Our households are already firmly established with intelligent devices. Seniors can communicate more efficiently with voice assistants integrated into smartphones, bright screens, and speakers, which may seem like lifestyle devices for young people. They can make phone calls without physically touching the phone (which may be helpful in an emergency), operate climate control devices without touching them, and these devices may also help them cope with loneliness.
● Activity Trackers
Many activity trackers are designed to provide information about our fitness, but they can also be helpful in other areas. The data on a person’s blood pressure or heart rate can help prevent accidents and even facilitate a faster diagnosis. A fitness tracker like this is handy for seniors who are still active since it allows them to set fitness goals.
● Clocks And Watches For Seniors
There are also clocks available for seniors, just like smartphones. These clocks offer inbuilt reminders or day-to-day information, with a simple visual display specially designed for people with dementia. Additionally, these devices can remind users to take their medications.
● Fall Detection Sensors
An accelerometer in some smart watches detects falls. They automatically call the emergency services or a trusted number when they fall. In addition, specific detectors are available that perform similar functions if a person cannot wear a watch.
● Noise-Canceling Headphones
Numerous headphones are equipped with noise-canceling technology. By producing a counterwave, they cancel background noise, allowing us to listen to music or block out the outside world. It works similarly to medical hearing aids, without necessarily reaching the same level of accuracy, in that it can pick up voices while ignoring background noise.
Final Words
A technology-based approach can benefit older adults in many ways. Seniors can manage their health, hobbies and household activities with modern devices. Moreover, a higher level of technology usage in older people is associated with better self-rated health, fewer chronic conditions, and a higher level of subjective well-being.
Optimal Senior Care Solutions provides in-home senior care services to seniors in Orange County and Newport Beach, CA. Reach out to us to learn more about our services.