Tech It Up! How technology can help elders cope with old age

Tech It Up! How technology can help elders cope with old age

As our parents and older family users age, connectedness has become more of a necessity than a “nice-to-have” element in their lives. This is especially true for elderly individuals who suffer from cognitive impairment and are already saddled with various other health issues. Learn how technology can help elders cope with old age, while keeping them connected to their family and friends

Technology has allowed families and healthcare systems to prioritize and address elders' needs efficiently. Most importantly, for families, it means having the opportunity to allow their loved ones to age at home and enjoy their company.

In 2017, the AARP revealed that almost 90% of elders in the United States aged 65 years and above preferred to spend their time at home. Additionally, 80% of those who favored staying in their residence also expressed their desire to spend their days with their families. [1]This number tells us that, given the choice, our older loved ones would rather stay close to where their heart lies—enjoying the warmth and affection of people who matter to them.

Here are five (5) stimulating activities you can do at home with your elderly loved ones.

In today’s age of advanced development, various technologies afford us a world of flexibility and convenience to improve the quality of care that we can give our elderly loved ones. Here are some ways technology is helping older people age with ease and grace today:

Constant connectedness

Social media has efficiently bridged the gap between countries and time zones worldwide. With just a few clicks, swipes, or scrolls, those in the United States can quickly contact their friends and family users living or working in the Philippines through chat or video calls.

Being socially engaged allows elders to enjoy a healthy outlook in life and a sense of community.

Better health assessment and monitoring

Video chat platforms have also allowed elders and their families to access virtual consultations with healthcare providers. At Geriatric Care Solution, we regularly keep in touch with families to assess the kind of care our elder clients receive and how to better adjust the plan of care that suits them best. This has become one of our most essential platforms now more than ever, especially with the threat of the coronavirus disease still hovering over us.

Other forms of tech, like wearable devices paired with smartphone apps, also allow healthcare providers to obtain vital information and track the movements and progress of elder clients. In this way, the former can obtain a clearer picture of how clients respond to the kind of care they receive.

Paint the blues away.

Video chat platforms have also allowed elders and their families to access virtual consultations with healthcare providers. At Geriatric Care Solution, we regularly keep in touch with families to assess the kind of care our older clients are receiving and how to adjust better the plan of care that suits them the best. This has become one of our most important platforms now more than ever, especially with the threat of the coronavirus disease still hovering over us.

Other forms of tech, like wearable devices paired with smartphone apps, also allow healthcare providers to get vital information and track the movements and progress of older clients. In this way, the former can obtain a clearer picture of how clients respond to the kind of care they receive.

Health and well-being

Seniors at home can also pass the time by exercising, baking, cooking, or playing a musical instrument while watching their favorite videos on YouTube. They can also enjoy their leisure time by reading e-books, listening to audio books, or playing games with their grandkids every now and then.

These are just some of the things our elders can enjoy nowadays using technology. With various possibilities now within reach through the virtual realm, there’s nothing better to do than allow our elders to experience more as we pour them the care and affection they deserve.