Technology is bringing families and friends closer together through enhanced communication that people of all ages and abilities can utilize. While younger generations tend to embrace new forms of technology without a thought, older adults may need some encouragement to take advantage of the many ways they can connect with their loved ones.
Commonly Used Communication Technology
Technology can be a great way to combat isolation among seniors, and many forms of technology can act as learning and entertainment platforms. Seniors should explore the different types of technology that are available for communication so they can find the one they’re most comfortable with. Here are some ideas to get your aging loved one started:
- Text messaging
- Video phone calls
- Social media sites
- Augmented hearing devices
- Instant messaging
- Smartphones
- Video game consoles
Avoiding isolation can boost quality of life in the golden years. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care Clearwater families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Encouraging Senior Use of Technology
At first, many seniors may be apprehensive about working with new technology. However, today’s intuitive devices make it easy for anyone to pick one up and start communicating. Begin by showing your loved one the basic functions of the device, and use it to connect with a friend or family member. Getting younger members of the family involved in the lesson can also build family bonds. If your loved one is concerned about privacy or scams, show him or her how to use a password and differentiate between a true message and spam. Then, use the technology to send regular updates, video messages, and check-in calls so your loved one is encouraged to continue using it to communicate.
Technology can also be utilized by those who are bedbound or for those with dementia because it can be enjoyed from the comfort and safety of home. Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Clearwater seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance.
As your loved one adjusts to using one type of technology, introduce more ways to socialize with others. From YouTube videos to Skype phone calls and collaborative video game sessions, the options are endless for helping older adults enjoy spending time with their loved ones with the assistance of the latest technology.
Even seniors who master technology may need help with other tasks around the home. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable homecare. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call today at (727) 330-7862