Who said technology is only for the young?
Well, you better think twice! Today is the era of technology devices for seniors. More and more seniors are accessing the internet now than ever before. Today, seniors actually make up the fastest growing segment of our society entering into the “internet age.” Not only are they joining Facebook in unprecedented numbers, but they also are getting into all technology-related items, from iPads and tablets and cellphones to computer games and video as well as health-related technology devices and software.
Seniors remember when the first VCR became available and their parents had difficulty in using and programming that simple device. Now it is their turn but they will not be as easily defeated. It is easy to call on the younger generation for help, but they are willing to learn, and learn they will!
Staying Abreast of Technology
Numerous classes are available for all seniors with a will to learn the newest technology. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute or OLLI has programs “in older adult education programs at colleges and universities across the United States.” One program is located at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida.
Moreover, health-related technology devices are some of the most exciting new developments on the market right now. They give seniors the ability to be more independent. It is difficult for anyone who is used to being in control to know they are losing their self-reliance. Seniors do not want to have to rely on others to supervise their personal lives. These best apps for seniors are just what we need.
Best Apps For Seniors
Health-related aspects of an individual’s daily life can be monitored via technological devices. There are many next-generation products that are “changing aging” forever.
1. Medical Alerts
Both Lifeline and Safe Guardian provide devices for medical alerts. The devices include fall-detection technology. If an individual wearing the device falls, an alert is sent out. And since the device includes a GPS sensor, the exact location of the individual can be determined. The wearer also has the option to press the medical alert button on the device and be connected to a response center for immediate aid. Help is just a device away if there is an emergency situation.
2. Smart appliances
Another technological advancement is a device that will alert a user if an appliance is on or off. In one episode of Two and a Half Men, Charlie answered the phone stating that it must be his washing machine calling to tell him it had completed the cycle. We are waiting for that reality. It may not be too far away. Using An Automatic Stove Turn Off Device, your stove can detect when the appliance should be turned off.
Additionally, phone apps will allow you to change the time your dishwasher or clothes washer, or dryer starts or stops. You can diagnose problems that you are having with your appliances, even when it is a “user error.” It sometimes feels like we are in the age of the Jetsons.
3. Social interaction tools
Tools such as Facetime for Apple devices or Skype are great alternatives to telephone calls. Since you get to see the person, you are talking to, it is as though you are in the same room. These communication tools connect elders with one another and help them remain cognitively stimulated with two-way videoconferencing, instant messaging, and entertainment devices for brain fitness.
Technology Devices
Our new “internet” world is changing and evolving every day. Try as you will, it is almost impossible to keep up with all of the newest innovations. Here are 5 easy-to-use health apps you may not know about.
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