Tech Savvy Seniors

Exploring the Benefits of Modern Technology for Seniors

This blog explores the benefits of modern technology in turn creating a world of tech savvy seniors. Continue reading to find out more …

Never too old to learn

In an ever advancing digital world it has never been more important to thrive technologically. We are surrounded by an array of digital devices, with technology being used in every facet of life. Humans developed technology to provide speed, connectivity and efficiency, making life easier. However, many older people feel they are being left behind in the hi-tech revolution. A digital divide exists between the young and old, but there doesn’t have to be. The common misconception of being ‘too old to stay up to date with digital technology’ is in my opinion false. I believe with the right support and education everyone is able to adjust to the ever evolving technology. It might seem intimidating but it is important to not underestimate the value of technology in your golden years. Being informed and connected provides both independence and entertainment.

Pandemic Provisions

The global pandemic has repeatedly plunged us all into lockdown, unable to receive visitors or leave our homes for any reason other than essentials. During this time older people have reported high rates of isolation and loneliness. Social activity improves a persons mental health, provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. Older people’s web based communication is disproportionately lower than the young, making them the most vulnerable group. Covid-19 has forced the world to interact digitally on a regular basis, through telehealth appointments with your doctor, to communicating with family and friends. Being empowered to remain informed and connected is more crucial than ever.

Moving Forward with the Times

During lockdown in the retirement village where I work, I helped set up Skype, Zoom and WhatsApp on countless devices. We have been running information technology presentations, internet safety sessions and lessons for the past 3 years, so I consider my residents a pretty tech savvy bunch; but a further cohort have been forced to take the leap into a digitally connected world. As a result of covid-19 many of my residents and their families have bought electronic devices, the most popular being smartphones and tablets. In order to remain safe many have elected to start shopping online, for groceries, clothes and household goods. At the start of the pandemic we found cash became obsolete, with retail stores refusing to handle it. This forced many of my residents to throw in the towel on their bank book days; electing to order debit cards and setting up online banking, with assistance. In this evolving world an increasing number of services, for example lodging forms with health providers and government organisations will continue to move to online platforms.

Be Connected

The Australian Government has developed a free nationwide initiative, Be Connected aiming to empower all older Australians to thrive in a digital world. Be Connected provides a collection of user-friendly online resources enabling you to develop your digital skills and confidence. The topics range from absolute basics, answering questions such as ‘what is a computer?’ and ‘what is the internet?’. The courses gradually progress to a more advanced level, covering useful subjects like, internet banking, online safety, connecting with others and even an introduction to setting up and accessing myGov. I have assisted residents to complete many of these courses and they are all very self explanatory, easy to use and provide opportunities to practice newly learned skills. If you set up a free account you will be able to track your progress, access bonus learning materials and print certificates when you complete a course.

Enlist Family Support

Alongside Be Connected it would be wise to enlist family for advice and support. Grandchildren are the obvious choice (if you have them). They are generally naturals with technology, growing up in a world where it has always been readily available. It is not only a great means of learning new information, but allows you to spend valuable time with family. I have owned a mobile phone and computer since about the age of 13. They were not as fancy and did not have the same capabilities and functions, however, I have grown up using them daily and as a result I am very capable. Though, I suspect my children, aged 8 and 10 years, will soon surpass me in their abilities.

The World is your Oyster

Once up and running, the world will become ‘your oyster’. Technology allows you to do just about anything, such as:

• Providing access to food through online shopping. Not only can you browse and buy groceries from supermarkets, you can also order from companies providing ready made meals, such as ‘Light n Easy’, a local favourite ‘Dinner Ladies‘ or order from local takeaways.
• Technology can assist in monitoring health and wellness. I wear a watch that tracks my steps, heart rate, sleep and tells me when I have been sitting for too long. Smartphones can also be set to record the same information. They also all have a section where you record health information, accessible by emergency services if required.
• Smartphones can keep you safe. They contain Global Positioning Systems (GPS) that track your location should you find yourself in an emergency situation. They also contain shortcuts for calling ‘000’.
• Technology allows you to stay up to date with the latest news and trends. Not only do I follow the ABC News on my Smartphone, I also frequent the BBC News to remain informed on updates and broadcasts from the United Kingdom.
• Technology can provide you with entertainment. You are able to watch terrestrial television, stream free or rent shows and movies, read books, play games, stay up to date with the news, listen to music, along with a whole host of other things. The possibilities are endless.
• Most importantly technology can help connect you with anyone, anywhere. I speak to my mum back in the UK almost every day and video call her most weeks so that she can see her grandchildren growing.

Go Forth and Explore

I hope this blog has inspired you to explore all that the digital world has to offer. Once you have the basic skills it will open up a world of possibilities; some that perhaps you didn’t even know existed, for example virtually touring the world from the comfort of your home by clicking the following links: ‘10 Virtual Tours of our Magnificent World‘, ‘8 Fantastic Virtual Art Gallery Tours‘ and ‘5 Inspiring Virtual Museum Tours‘. You could also begin an exercise program from your home of receive tips for dealing with lockdown anxiety by reading my previous posts. Enjoy exploring, learning and help in dispelling the myth that ‘seniors and technology do not mesh’.