As we move into 2024, technology has become a necessity in everyday life. People of all ages rely on different gadgets or get on various platforms to perform daily tasks.
Seniors are no exception when it comes to embracing technology. A 2021 study by the AARP found that 44 percent of older adults view tech more positively than before the pandemic.
This post will explore why embracing technology can help people as they age and offer device recommendations that can enhance daily life.
Why Tech Matters for Seniors
While aging can be a privilege and a pleasant experience for some, it also comes with certain physical limitations.
Tech can be a valuable tool to help older people navigate their lives more easily. Here are some ways technology can become instrumental in your golden years.
Improved independence
Technology can be powerful for encouraging independence among seniors. With the aid of tech devices and applications, older people can perform daily tasks more efficiently without relying on a full-time carer.
Tech devices and gadgets can help seniors take charge of their finances, maintain their homes, and communicate with their loved ones. They empower seniors to maintain control over their lives, which enhances their sense of self-reliance and confidence.
Mental stimulation
Engaging with technology can give seniors valuable mental stimulation, helping their minds stay sharp and agile.
Several brain-training and puzzle apps or games are available for smartphones and tablets. The Internet also offers many learning opportunities and resources for people of all ages.
Embracing technology can help seniors combat cognitive decline and maintain good brain health into their golden years.
One of the most prominent benefits of modern technology is the capability to communicate with nearly anyone in the world. Tech devices and networks can be a senior’s bridge to the outside world, especially if they require isolation or live far from their loved ones.
Social media platforms, video calls, and messaging apps help older people connect with family and friends. These interactions are an effective way to combat loneliness and promote emotional well-being.
Health monitoring
Aside from providing assistance, entertainment, and companionship, tech can also help seniors monitor and care for their health.
Wearable fitness trackers can help seniors monitor their heart rate, vitals, and physical activity. Telehealth platforms allow them to have doctor’s appointments without leaving their home.
These innovations empower seniors to track vital health metrics and access timely medical assistance, which can improve their overall quality of life.
7 Tech Recommendations To Make Life Easier for Seniors
Tech innovations are often created to address specific needs and purposes. As they continue to evolve, seniors also gain access to tools and platforms that make their lives easier.
Here are seven recommended devices designed to help seniors live comfortably.
1. Smartphone
Nearly everybody has a smartphone, regardless of age. A 2022 study found that 83 percent of people aged 50 to 64 and 61 percent of those aged 65 and above owned and used smartphones.
A smartphone is more than just a simple communication device. It is a versatile tool that can give seniors access to various features and applications. Phones and plans can help seniors stay connected with loved ones, access information on any topic, and manage multiple aspects of their lives with ease.
Many smartphones also offer accessibility features like larger font sizes, voice commands, and screen magnification to cater to the specific needs of seniors.
2. Wearables
Wearables like smartwatches or fitness trackers are incredibly helpful for seniors who want to monitor their health and stay active.
These devices track metrics like heart rate and physical activity, providing measurable insights into well-being. This data also encourages seniors to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Many wearables also incorporate safety features like fall detection and emergency alerts. These features help offer peace of mind to seniors and their caregivers and ensure prompt assistance during emergencies.
3. Smart speakers
Smart speakers are often powered by virtual assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant. These handy devices offer hands-free and voice-activated assistance for various purposes.
Seniors can use voice commands to do daily tasks, such as setting alarms and timers, listening to music, asking questions, and controlling smart home devices. They don’t have to fiddle with their phones, buttons, or switches. They just have to speak to their speaker.
4. Robot vacuum cleaner
Keeping homes clean and tidy can be challenging for seniors, especially those who live alone or without a live-in caregiver. Limited mobility and energy can make it difficult to clean up messes or organize one’s home.
A robot vacuum cleaner offers a convenient solution by effortlessly cleaning floors with minimal effort or human intervention. You just need to switch it on, and it can clean your floors for you.
Many robot vacuums include features like automatic navigation, obstacle detection, and scheduling capabilities, making household chores a breeze for seniors.
This helpful device allows seniors to maintain a clean living environment and improve their well-being while reducing physical strain.
5. Smart plugs
Smart plugs are simple yet powerful devices that can enhance convenience and safety in the home for seniors. They allow users to convert traditional devices and appliances into smart devices. As a result, you can control them through smartphone apps or voice commands.
By using smart plugs, seniors can enjoy the convenience of controlling different home appliances from the palm of their hands. They can turn lights on and off, control appliances, and monitor energy usage.
6. Video doorbells
Video doorbells have grown in popularity across homes all over the country. They can offer seniors peace of mind by allowing them to see and communicate with people at their doorstep, whether they’re at home or away.
Doorbell features like two-way audio, motion detection, and live video streaming help provide enhanced security and convenience.
Seniors can use these doorbells to recognize visitors, receive packages, and deter potential intruders. They can see who’s at the door without having to physically answer it, making them feel safer and more confident at home.
7. Key finders
Getting older can sometimes mean growing more forgetful. A key finder can be a lifesaver for seniors who frequently misplace their keys or other essential items.
These small devices can attach to keychains or other belongings, and you can use Bluetooth technology to track their location in the home. Some key finders allow you to trigger an audible alarm, which can help seniors easily track misplaced valuables.
Embracing Tech in Your Golden Years
Technology holds significant potential to enhance the lives of older people. It can help monitor their health, facilitate socialization, stimulate their minds, and encourage independence. Embracing the right tech can help seniors enjoy their lives better as they reach their golden years.
