Using Technology with Seniors

It’s a slow, uphill climb, but more and more seniors are opening up to the possibilities and benefits of using technology.  Technology can benefit seniors socially, emotionally, physically and mentally.

What Types of Technologies do Seniors Use?

• Internet—The internet connects people of all ages to news and information, government services, health resources, and opportunities for social support.
• Email—Email is easy for most seniors to understand and makes staying in touch with friends and family a snap!
• Facebook—Facebook is a free website that lets users share photos and comments on day-to-day activities.
• Skype—Video chatting with Skype is a great way to keep seniors connected with faraway friends and family.
• Wii and Other Gaming Systems—All over the country, seniors are getting more social, more fit and even smarter with gaming systems like the Wii, Xbox and PlayStation.
• iPods and mp3 players—Listening to preferred music though personal headphones can have a major, positive impact on everyone who uses them.  Music can help seniors come off their anxiety medications, and it can decrease combative and depressive behaviors. 
• E-Readers—Seniors have many reasons to love e-readers!  E-readers let seniors change print size to suit their needs. They’re much more portable than bulky books.   And, e-readers allow seniors to easily browse, purchase and even borrow library books all from the comfort of home.
• iPhone and Android Apps—There are many apps (some free) that may be useful to seniors, such as medication reminders, appointment keepers and even apps that can help diabetic clients track and monitor blood sugar.
• Streaming Media—Streaming media is video and/or audio data transmitted over a computer network for immediate playback rather than for file download.

How can you help your clients make better use of technology?

• Take it slowly! When teaching seniors about technology that is new to them, be prepared for questions, hesitations and the need to repeat yourself! 
• Make it relevant.  Be sure to let your clients know the benefits of the technology you are teaching.  They may feel like they are just wasting time or goofing off unless they see a real reason to learn something new.
• Avoid distractions. When possible, reduce the amount of visual and auditory distractions, such as other people and background noises, when introducing new technology to seniors.