Helping Seniors Use Technology for Safety, Health, and Happiness

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The following is a guest column written by Mary Shannon of the seniorsmeet.org website.
See her bio at the end of this story.

When the coronavirus pandemic first hit, we all had to change our habits pretty suddenly. The term “social distancing” became the norm, and having to keep a distance from others made us turn to our tech devices more than ever. Some senior citizens were already using smartphones to stay in touch, but for many others, getting connected through digital technology was a brand new adventure. Of course, we all hope we can return to normal soon, but the use of tech among seniors is a trend that’s here to stay – and that’s a good thing!

This Retirement Life invites you to consider the following when dipping your toes into the world of technology.

Why Rely on Tech Long-Term?

While technology can’t replace in-person interaction, both caregivers and seniors have much to gain from embracing tech solutions long-term – even after the pandemic is over. Families can schedule regular video chats to keep up with each other between visits, helping seniors stay connected and less lonely. Then there’s the benefit of smart home and wearable devices that help seniors keep up with their health needs. These gadgets can be vital for seniors who live at home; even those who live in an assisted living community will enjoy the greater independence tech devices give them.

What Should Families Know About Technology for Seniors?

Each person and each family is unique, but we’ve found that most families can benefit from these top tips for helping seniors with technology:

It’s Important to Make the Right “Connection”

“Connection” has lots of meanings when it comes to technology. It means staying connected to each other through our smartphones. It also means helping your loved one get set up with a service provider for their mobile data and an internet connection for home. This is a crucial part of getting seniors connected to technology because a poor internet connection, or not having enough data on their phone plan, can lead to frustration. If your loved one has trouble paying for the internet, it’s worth looking into whether they qualify for programs that provide high-speed internet at a reduced cost.

Making the right connection can also mean helping them choose the best tech solutions, as well as helping them learn how to use their devices. A senior’s closest caregiver is probably their best resource for making these decisions because you know their interests, their limitations, and their health needs. For example, your loved one may feel more comfortable with a laptop or tablet when it comes to video chats or internet surfing.

Whatever their need, make sure they have the right technology at their fingertips. When it comes to laptops, you can find user-friendly options, and you don’t have to buy something at full price. Wait for holiday savings events to find promotions or discounts to make this purchase easier on the wallet.

Internet Safety for Seniors

Internet safety is a concern we all have to be aware of, and unfortunately, seniors are at a greater risk of being targeted by online scammers. You can help protect your loved one by checking the privacy settings on their devices. Then help them understand online safety. Some of the most important safety tips for seniors to keep in mind include:

– Checking to see whether a website is secure before accessing it

– Using strong passwords for their email and other online accounts

– Never opening links or downloading files in an email that comes from someone they don’t know

– Reporting suspicious-looking emails as spam

– Never providing personal information via email or on unsecure sites, including their address, phone number, Social Security Number, and bank account and credit card information

Getting Involved in Everyday Activities

If you’re wondering how your loved one can benefit even more from technology, look no further than the ways YOU use your devices on a daily basis. Just like younger adults, Medical Alert explains that seniors love using tech devices for everyday activities like playing games, making appointments, and online shopping. Once they get the hang of it, a chore like shopping becomes even easier and more convenient when they can do it online.

Utilizing technology to reduce the need to leave the home can also have huge safety benefits for seniors, particularly those with limited mobility or a physical disability. Even seniors who simply don’t want to leave their home because of inclement weather, like rain or snow, can check items off their to-do lists thanks to the internet. For example, seniors who have trouble navigating the crowded aisles of the grocery store can order their items online for pickup or delivery. Similarly, those who are too ill to attend their doctor’s office in person can schedule a virtual appointment, place their prescription order online, and have their medications dropped off at their doorstep.

Being connected with smartphones can also help seniors find virtual volunteer opportunities. We may normally think about volunteers helping seniors, rather than the other way around, but don’t forget that seniors want to give back to their communities too. Not only is virtual volunteering a wonderful – and safe – way to help our fellow man in the age of the coronavirus, it also has multiple health benefits. The AARP reports that seniors who give back to the community enjoy reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, a boost in self-confidence, a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and even a decreased risk of depression.

The concept of virtual volunteering may be new to us all, but because of the pandemic, ideas that once seemed silly have become normal. The pandemic will eventually be gone, but some of these new normal ideas will be here to stay. Getting seniors more connected to technology is one of those changes, and thankfully, it’s a change for the better!

For more articles on senior living in retirement, look to This Retirement Life, where you can find articles on everything from travel to health and wellness to finances and more.