Most of us spend hours a day in front of screens – from tiny smartphones to tablets and televisions – so much time, in fact, that it might be considered an habit. But the fact is, technology offers substantial benefits that some seniors may be missing.
While a growing number of seniors routinely access the internet for things like news and email, there are other technology tools that can help optimize the potential social, mental, and physical health benefits. Working with the seniors in your life to help make them comfortable using things like tablets, smartphones, and even smart watches can open up a whole world of useful monitoring, exercise, and other support tools that can positively impact their quality of life.
Mental activity
Regular internet use has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia because it helps improve cognitive function and memory skills. Anything from completing a sudoku puzzle online to accessing a healthcare portal on a smartphone can improve mental acumen.
Social interaction
In 2023, more than one in three older adults reported feeling isolated in the past year, and that social isolation can increase the risk of premature death to the same degree that smoking and obesity can. This is where online tools shine: social media tools like Facebook, Instagram and even Pinterest give seniors a chance to connect with long-lost friends or new people with whom they share hobbies or interests. They can also stay in touch with faraway family members by sharing photos, videos or just chatting.
Health monitoring
Thanks to new technologies, we can use smartphones, fitness watches, and other devices to track our vital signs, including oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. There are also apps that remind people when it is time to take their medicine. Additionally, the internet allows people to easily access health portals, review test results, and schedule appointments with their doctors. This kind of access gives a greater sense of confidence and independence to seniors.
Increased independence
With a smartphone and the right apps, any senior can have a meal delivered from a favorite restaurant, or even have an entire grocery list of food show up at their front door. And if they prefer to go out to eat or do their own shopping, another app makes it possible to request a ride. Voice-activated technologies can make living on their own more comfortable, too, by turning on music or raising the temperature through a simple verbal command. Meanwhile, personal monitoring devices with GPS functions and other alert systems, such as fall detection, can bring peace of mind to both older adults and their loved ones.
Increased confidence through practice
One way the team at The Legacy in Tuscaloosa helps residents increase their comfort in using technology – and build confidence in using technology on their own – is through community partnerships. The Legacy works with companies in the area, as well as volunteers, to help bring technological tools to residents and help them learn to use them. Most recently, Sphere Audio Visual guided residents in painting, physical coordination activities, and even a game of hopscotch using technology.
Learn more about The Legacy Assisted Living
The Legacy helps its residents stay active, engaged and connected through games, outings, crafts, music and other events as well as technology. If you or a loved one are concerned about your ability to live independently, consider The Legacy Assisted Living in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Free from the stress of maintaining a home, residents can enjoy new friends, new experiences, and new days at The Legacy Assisted Living.
Our goal is to provide a holistic, caring family environment while ensuring safety, security, and peace of mind while nurturing independence and well-being. The Legacy Assisted Living has caring staff available 24 hours a day, with a goal of personal freedom while remaining safe and active in a supportive home atmosphere.
The Legacy Assisted Living is locally owned and operated with elite medical partners both onsite and off campus. Our vision is a small community environment focused on caring, family values, and supporting individual’s independence and well-being. Call Jonacha at today at (205) 344-2855 to schedule a tour or to learn more about what awaits at The Legacy Assisted Living!
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