Many seniors today hesitate to adopt technology. Learning something new takes them a long time, and they become frustrated when they forget a step or two. While some older adults embrace new technologies quickly and effortlessly, that is not the case with all.
Why Many Seniors Don’t Like Technology
Seniors may also hesitate to use technology because they worry about data security. They don’t want their private information to become public knowledge, even if it is not sensitive information. People must realize this and help older adults learn and embrace this technology. They must act intentionally when working with these individuals to ensure they become comfortable with these devices. This technology can be used whether a senior lives at home or in an independent living community.
Overcoming Thee Concerns
Doing so is essential, as, if used correctly, technology can improve a person’s quality of life and help seniors remain independent longer. When seniors hesitate to use this technology, it falls on their loved ones to encourage them to do so.
One way to accomplish this is to ensure developers integrate human elements into technology. Doing so will reduce the intimidation many seniors experience when using a machine or smart device. What steps can be taken to accomplish this goal, and how can other people be involved?
One way to encourage seniors to use technology is to provide them with a coach who can assist with this process. The coach will work with the senior to create a personalized plan to allow the individual to maintain independence and a better quality of life. The coach is there to help the senior learn to use technology, including smart technology, for a higher quality of life.
Social Isolation
Social isolation is a significant concern in older adults because loneliness boosts their risk of premature death by 26%. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineers, and Medicine reported this disturbing statistic, which should concern everyone. Human touch is essential even when a senior has access to technology. Smart devices are there to provide them with peace of mind.
Technology can be used to update family members about a senior’s general health and wellness. The wellness coach will ensure that they receive notifications from wearable tech when there is a change in the senior’s health and wellness. Family members can see the senior’s heart rate, weight, sleep quality, activity, and body mass index.
Fall Detection
Furthermore, technology can alert family and friends if a senior falls. Fall detection is crucial because falls are a leading cause of injury-related death in seniors. As the CDC reports, 25% of seniors fall each year, so preventing these accidents is critical.
Being Proactive
The healthcare industry is moving from traditional models to proactive approaches. The senior population is expanding at a rapid rate, so this change is desperately needed. Older adults tend to have complex healthcare needs, and human support and technology will be crucial in addressing these needs. Innovative solutions must focus on connections, independence, and care. Doing so will ensure that seniors live longer while enjoying a higher quality of life.
Every person needs to embrace technology because it is becoming a part of daily life. Seniors are often the last ones to do so, but this doesn’t have to be the case. People need to come together and collaborate to find ways to support aging adults, and technology is one way they can do so.
