“When my mother moves downstairs, will the right cables be in the room to connect her desktop?”
In our facility, with independent living, assisted living and care, this elder had moved into care. Beginning to settle in, her family was in the process of moving her belongings out of her apartment and into her room. I knew that the cables they needed weren’t in the room, and I had no idea where to find them, or if we had such a thing.
This was my first resident with a computer.
Within a few years, desktops, laptops, tablets and iPhones were as common as televisions in residents’ rooms. In fact, internet usage among older adults has climbed every year. Although these statistics are from the U.S., we can surmise they are similar in Canada.
Fully 95% of adults in the US reported using the internet as of last year, up from 90% in 2019, according to a study from the Pew Research Center. Internet use is unsurprisingly almost universal among younger age groups, but that’s also the case for the 50-64 age group and increasingly so for adults ages 65 and older. 1.
How can elders benefit from technology? How can those who are hesitant or unfamiliar get some benefits if supported? And how can technology keep elders safer?
How can technology benefit elders?
1. Social connection
One of the biggest challenges of elders is often isolation. When mobility and other abilities (such as sight, hearing, cognition) become a challenge, their world may shrink. Maintaining relationships becomes difficult.
Enter social media. Through Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms, I can see what my friends are doing and even make comments. I can join groups from my old neighbourhood, my alma mater, or a former workplace, and connect with people I used to know. I can find people with a passion like mine (knitters, model train enthusiasts, gardeners) and interact with them, making new friends. The possibilities are almost endless.
2. Health
Although never a substitute for professional medical advice, today’s consumer is more informed. Yes, misinformation abounds on the internet, but some sites, such as the Mayo Clinic or hospital sites can be trusted. Apps are available to help with health monitoring: medication administration, blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar, heart rate and more.
Other apps can monitor sleep, and alert the user to problems like sleep apnea.
Devices like Fitbits and Apple Watches help keep elders aware of how much they are moving, how many steps they are taking, and how much exercise they are getting in a day.
3. Entertainment
E-readers such as Kindle and programs such as Audible are popular among elders, and a great way to maintain cognitive function (and have fun at the same time.) Even better, to my mind, is the free Libby app I have on my iPhone, which gives me access to my local library, and thousands of free books and audiobooks.
There are huge resources of game apps available, many of which at least start free. You may have to remind your elder that little add-ons like “no ads” or game passes, which cost a few dollars, can add up. However, if they use only the free features, they can have fun and sharpen their brain function as well. Sorting games, word games, math games, games which help reflexes–the list is endless.
Another caution. Casinos are also available online, and can be a trap for those who use them.
4. Shopping
I am a rare bird among the female population. I have always hated shopping. I find malls overwhelming and exhausting, and going from store to store looking for the best deals is about as appealing as a tooth extraction where the roots are stuck.
However, online stores were made for people like me, and for elders who are isolated. They are a godsend. Many provide huge variety, speedy delivery and easy return of products which don’t work. Almost all major department stores deliver. Your elder may need support to get started, or they may need continued help, but the convenience is worth it. Groceries arrive on your porch (or arrangements can often be made to bring them inside,) pharmacy items, gifts for Christmas and other occasions, clothes–the possibilities are endless.
5. Education
Online courses in a huge variety of topics are available, and many of these are free or at a reduced price for seniors. Want to learn a new language? Learn how to write your memoir? Learn to paint? Explore other countries? Almost unlimited resources are available.
For an elder who is willing to go online, the possibilities and advantages are incredible. But what about those who aren’t? How can they benefit with support?
It wasn’t that long ago…
moving, how many steps they are taking, and how much exercise they are getting in a day. 