Technology is an increasingly significant part of our lives. Not just for the Millennials — seniors are increasingly adopting technology too. In fact, around 4 in 10 seniors own and use smartphones, one-third use tablets, and 67% regularly go online. Here are great uses for technology, as well as tips on how to stay safe online, from our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Sussex County, NJ.
Benefits of technology for seniors
Why are more seniors adopting cutting-edge technologies? Well, there are plenty of benefits. Here’s what the experts say:
- Staying social. Staying in touch with family and friends is easier than ever before, thanks to text messaging systems, video chat programs, email, and social media. It’s also faster than ever before, with many options to connect you face-to-face instantaneously like Skype and Facetime, no matter how far apart you are geographically. This is a great way to check in with friends, see how the grand-kids are doing and much more, all with the click of a button.
- And a healthier social life has a significant impact on physical health, too, keeping seniors active and engaged. In fact, according to United Healthcare’s 2012 100@100 survey, it’s just as important as healthy genetics, exercise, and a nutritious diet.
- Safety. One of the biggest fears of seniors and their loved ones is safety. Thanks to technology, you can send an assistance alert simply by pressing a button on your Personal Emergency Response System (PERS). Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices can also help families and loved ones keep track of seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, who can easily become disorientated and lost.
- Medication Management and Health Tracking. As we age, we usually take more and more pills — all of which need to be taken on a specific day, at a certain time and under particular conditions. There are many apps and technologies today that can simplify this process, preventing overdoses and medication mismanagement. Similarly, apps can help seniors meet their physical fitness or nutrition targets and monitor daily health activities. They can also store health records and information on health conditions for easy access.
Staying Safe with Technology
Of course, technology has its own risks and seniors are vulnerable to scams. Simple rules to follow include:
- Only use apps that are recommended by your healthcare professional or someone you trust;
- Keep your smartphone or device secure with a password; and
- Only allow trusted individuals access to your device.
Experience the Best in CCRC And Assisted Living in Sussex County, NJ
Bristol Glen, an independent senior living community, based in Sussex County, provides comfortable, serviced living arrangements that allow seniors to enjoy life. Founded on a philosophy of aging in place, our continuing care retirement community residents enjoy a less restrictive care model that does not require them to move from their residential apartments to access additional services as their needs change.
Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living facilities, amenities and services. Please go to our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/ and book your visit today.
Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/seniors-technology-staying-touch-avoiding-scams/
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