Seniors becoming more tech-savvy
Seniors becoming more tech-savvy
Technology is the future, and digital communication has opened many doors for people around the world. Although younger generations have grown up with technology at their fingers, baby boomers and older adults did not. But in spite of that, studies show that growing numbers of seniors are open to the idea of technology and even seek ways to further its use. According to a recent study by Pew Research Center, 59 percent of seniors regularly use the internet — a 6 percent increase from the previous study, conducted in 2012. Today, 67 percent of adults ages 65 and older have said they go online. Pew also said that although seniors consistently have lower rates of technology adoption than the general public, four in 10 seniors now own smartphones, which is more than double the amount who did in 2013. “Technology doesn’t need to be complicated or frustrating for seniors,” said Nancy Foster, outreach educator for CapTel Captioned Telephone service. While stereotypes have long painted seniors as technologically inept, seniors are actually more socially and digitally engaged than ever before. Seniors use technology in a variety of ways. Some use mobile apps to manage medications and doctor’s appointments and to monitor their fitness regimens. Some families employ 24/7 alert systems or smarthome technology to keep seniors comfortable and safe at home for as long as possible. Noninvasive “smart” technology can analyze factors such as whether or not doors are left open, if there has been movement in a home or whether appliances/lights are on or off. This represents a great way for families to stay informed and provide assistance, even if they are not nearby. “Being able to communicate over the phone can help seniors stay safe and independent,” she said. “Family members can stay in touch and closely monitor the health and safety of their aging relatives.” Another product can help seniors who may have trouble hearing during phone conversations. CapTel Captioned Telephones use a traditional land-line telephone to display text on the senior’s television screen similar to how closed captioning works for television shows. “Using a CapTel captioned telephone can help people stay connected and remain independent,” Foster said. “If someone you know has trouble hearing over the phone, they may benefit from the use of a CapTel Captioned Telephone. CapTel and the captioning service is a no-cost option for people with hearing loss.” Foster said that the inability to hear over the phone can lead to social isolation. Even with hearing aids, some people can have difficulty hearing phone conversations, which is why CapTel is an important technology, she said. SilverSurfers, a senior-based information website, states that other technology that seniors are embracing includes online dating; audio and digital books; online shopping, which is especially valuable to seniors who have mobility issues; and social media, which can keep seniors connected to others and feeling less lonely. A study conducted by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco found that 18 percent of American seniors live alone, and 43 percent report feeling lonely on a regular basis. Loneliness can increase the risk of death. Social media and internet connectivity can be important tools in helping seniors feel like active members of society. Technology is no longer just for teenagers or active workers. Seniors are increasingly embracing technology and becoming a fast-growing demographic for tech usage.
— Courtesy of Metro Creative, with contributions by Cody Graves, special sections writer