How Technology Has Changed Our Lives & How It Affects the Elderly?

 In this article, learn about How Technology Has Changed Our Lives from the past to the present and how it benefits our senior’s lives

how technology has changed our lives and how it affects the elderly

Overview

Technological advancements provide opportunities for the fast delivery of interventions with older adults.

Through a series of developments over several decades, we have seen the impact of technology in our daily life.

As technology continues to evolve, consumers are thriving with the results.

The once-daunting concept of using computers in every part of our lives has become a welcomed reality, and it has completely revolutionized how our world functions and thrives. 

Today, the aging population has the advantage of using technology for maintaining their health and remaining independent.

Benefits Of Technology for seniors

Here we cover how technology has changed our lives for the better and how it benefits our seniors.

1. Communication

Most notably, the smartphone has been a staple in the realm of communication advancements.

A device small enough to fit in our pocket can connect the user with anyone across the continent with the push of a button.

Ease of access to communicate with loved ones has never been more efficient with popular video conference apps such as Zoom or Skype.

Social connection through video chat and social media provide caregivers and families the ability to check on an elderly friend or loved one who may not have access to medical facilities as they age in place at home.

This technology helps to battle depression and isolation in the elderly population, which are common to seniors living alone.

Recommended Read: Find the best overbed table with wheels reviews right here for you loved ones

2. Safety and security

Safety and security developments reign as two of the most valuable technological advancements for many reasons: seniors who are living alone can protect themselves from harm with security systems, electronic data monitoring systems, and medical alert systems.

Consumers can monitor their home when they are at work or on vacation, and motion detection on the camera sensors will send an alert to the homeowner’s smartphone.

Many products feature the ability to preview the person at the front door and communicate with them, even when the homeowner is not at home.

Vulnerable adults and children benefit the most from this feature, as they can safely remain in their homes and avoid physical contact with potentially dangerous and unwanted guests.

In addition to visual monitoring developments, electronic data monitoring systems protect valuable information such as bank accounts, social security numbers, and other personal information from getting into the wrong hands. Data breaches are costly, and scammers often target seniors.

Software developments such as blockchain technology offer un-hackable cryptography and protect and securely store sensitive data.

Medical alert systems have been developed to alert caregivers or emergency personnel when an elderly person at risk for falls needs assistance. The senior simply presses a wearable call button and they are connected with a dispatcher who can summon emergency help, or contact a family member.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Personal health advancements have evolved to include medication management systems, personal monitoring devices, and medical devices such as a cardiac monitor.

We can surgically implant a pacemaker device (with technologically advanced robotic tools) that generates electrical impulses that cause the heart muscle chambers to contract and stabilize an irregular heartbeat.

Technological advancements are saving lives.

Throughout the current COVID-19 pandemic, contact is very limited and, in many places, eliminated to prevent people from contracting and spreading the virus.

As a result, physicians and clinics offer Telehealth—or virtual appointments—where the patient can virtually see the doctor and discuss medical concerns while in the comfort and safety of their homes.

This advancement has helped to expedite services and reduce barriers such as transportation, language, and geography.

Recommended Read: Find the best drive nitro rollator reviews right here!

Senior women on a wheelchair is assisted by a nurse

Image Soure: Pikerpo.com

Medical technology advances have restructured the health care system to document, diagnose, and continually monitor health concerns electronically.

Additionally, technology has aided in the ongoing search for cures and remedies for all medical complications.

Modern medicine is an example of technology and medicine, working together to save lives.

ENTERTAINMENT

It’s no secret that technology provides endless hours of entertainment in the form of television, videos, games, and so much more.

Over the years, tech companies have been offering additional features and improvements to push for more sales than their competitors. 

Notably, books can be read on an e-reader device, which provides an excellent way for seniors to access their favorite books at their fingertips.

Audiobooks are a portable alternative to enjoy while on the go.

Music is accessible to hear songs from any decade and by any artist; no longer do we need to play vinyl records, CDs, or cassette tapes. We have millions of songs available to listen to on our smartphones, computer, car, portable speakers, and televisions.

Boredom can lead to depression in the elderly. Fortunately, there are thousands of senior-friendly games available online to help maintain a healthy mind: Seniors can digitally play apps such as Solitaire, Candy Crush Saga, and Scrabble in the comfort of their homes. The Words with Friends app’s social component inspires engagement with strangers, friends, and family with the same skill level.

CONVENIENCE

As technology continues to develop, seniors can do their shopping in the comfort of their homes.

This development is significant for seniors who don’t have access to transportation or may have personal mobility challenges.

Through various apps or on a computer, seniors can order groceries, shop for items online, and have them delivered right to their front door.

Seniors don’t need to risk their health and safety by going out in inclement weather to go to the store when all they have to do is click a button, and the desired items will be dropped off at their doorstep. 

Electronic prescription refills and meal delivery services are results of technological advancements, as well. Families can ensure their loved ones are meeting their basic needs by setting up and utilizing these services. 

Seniors using mobile

Those who enjoy getting out and shopping but don’t have a car can use apps for transportation services and safely get from place to place.

With popular apps such as Uber and Lyft, seniors are able to commute safely and reliably. 

Physical disabilities no longer pose a challenge when using a computer. State-of-the-art technology such as touch-screen devices and speech-enabled keyboards aids disabled seniors in experiencing the benefits of the internet.

Most computer operating systems can be modified to fit the physical and cognitive needs of the user.

WHAT’S NEXT?

It’s difficult to imagine, but in the future—near or far— there may be technological advancements to create wondrous things such as commercialized space travel opportunities, flying cars, robot companions, or perhaps, we will finally find the cure for cancer. 

One thing is for sure; as the generations age, technology will continue to improve lifestyles in every capacity. Medical, social, entertainment, cognitive, and physical advantages will infuse with our day-to-day routines.

Subsequently, the world will be healthier and safer, and we will remain an independent generation.

You may also Like

Rate this post

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *