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Achieving Digital Literacy: A Few Crucial Technology Tools for Older Americans
While technology can make our lives so much easier, many older adults seem to be reluctant to embrace new technological tools, learn how to use technical devices, and develop new skills. In fact, achieving digital literacy seems like an insurmountable task to many who assume that it requires a particular mindset, strong technical acumen, and, most importantly, the courage to expand their horizons and discover new talents, which reinforces deeply ingrained stereotypes about mature individuals and technology.
Although younger people in general are far ahead of their parents and grandparents when it comes to digital proficiency, there is some uplifting evidence presented by U.S. News Money suggesting that 58% of individuals over 65 use the Internet, which is up from 15% in 2000. Furthermore, the numbers are even higher among well-educated and affluent people. Even people in their 90s are increasingly embracing smartphones, tablets, social media, and other technologies.
Technology use is not only about having fun online, watching videos, or perusing the news. New technology enables older adults to maintain contact with family members, live independently, and get help as soon as they need it. Certain specialized devices can even monitor medication management, locate a lost Alzheimer’s patient, or sense when someone has fallen. In addition, some technical tools have simple-to-use features that mature individuals can quickly learn and adopt.
Here are a few crucial tools for older Americans that can help them function more effectively and make their lives easier.
Smartphones. Smartphones are an amazing tool that can be utilized for a wide variety of crucial tasks. Their use goes far beyond making phone calls, emailing, texting, or playing video games. Smartphones can be used to research health topics on the internet, learn new things, read books, video chat with loved ones, and even manage finances. In fact, there are smartphones designed specifically for older adults that offer larger screens, easier-to-use interfaces, and hearing aid compatibility.
Skype or FaceTime. Evidence suggests that these apps have become quite popular with older adults who have family members living far away. While using Skype or FaceTime cannot replace face-to-face interactions, using these apps can still bring joy to older adults, help them feel connected, and reduce their risk of loneliness. By the way, many older individuals are replacing their computers or laptops with tablets when it comes to video conferencing their loved ones, sharing photos, or gathering data from online sources. These tools may be particularly helpful for those who cannot travel or have limited mobility.
Wearable fitness monitors. There are a variety of fitness and activity trackers on the market that make it easier for mature adults to live a healthy and productive life. From fitness bands to step trackers, heart rate monitors and smartwatches – there is no shortage of wearable technology designed to monitor physical activity, sleep, and exercise routine.
Automatic pill organizers. It goes without saying that pill organizers make it easier to stay organized and keep tabs on multiple medications. We all realize how important it is to take medications correctly and on time. This amazing technical device can be filled up and programmed by an older adult or his/her loved one. All that needs to be done is placing medications into appropriate compartments and setting timers to release the pills at certain times. When the time comes to take the pill, the device sets off an auditory or even a visual alarm. No need to feel confused or frustrated, “desperately” trying to figure out how to keep track of multiple dosages or bottles. Technology is your best friend and will do all the work for you.
Fall detection devices. Let’s face it: slips, trips, and falls pose a major concern for older Americans and these sensors can potentially save lives. As you may already know, motion sensors are good at detecting home intruders. However, some companies have designed sophisticated algorithms to detect human falls. Some even have started using Artificial Intelligence to draw a distinction between animals and humans.
Final thoughts: These are just a few of the many amazing and helpful technological tools that can benefit older adults and transform their lives. Just because you are not a college student or a tech guru, it doesn’t necessarily mean that embracing smart-living technologies is beyond you and you might as well forego using them. According to the Consumer Technology Association, “the active aging industry” in the United States is expected to triple in the next few years, to nearly $30 billion. After all, technology is a great asset for mature adults, providing a safe way to stay connected with family members, stay active and healthy, and live independently for as long as possible.
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The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or beginning any exercise program.