It is easy to believe that only the younger generations can benefit from technological advances. Indeed, the majority of new tech was created with youth in mind? Not quite.
It is the technology that was created with older users in mind. This feature by the APA optimizes tech. It explains how tech developers collaborate with psychologists and experts on aging, cognitive psychology, and neuropsychology. This has resulted in a rise in technology that has helped older adults remain connected during the Covid-19 epidemic.
Technology is just another way for seniors to age gracefully if they do their research well. Let’s take a look at these tips to help you do just that.
Make the most of the latest technology
What are the most compelling new technologies for older adults? To accommodate old-age frailties, you can use the Internet (which was used by 21% over-75s in 2020) or larger screens.
This column by Wirecutter on smart homes explains how small sensors can be used to aid lighting, hidden cameras for security and communications, and voice-activated speakers. These gadgets can make life easier and safer for older adults who choose to live alone.
Learn about virtual care
Technology has made it easier to access essential healthcare services, as well as facilitated convenience. This guide to telehealth software solutions from Wheel describes the various disease management tools and clinical documentation that enable clinicians to communicate with patients at any time of the day.
Seniors who need extra care but don’t want to travel to the clinic can benefit significantly from telehealth. Telehealth usage soared by more than 8,000% in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Some medical practices hesitate to invest in telemedicine technology platforms despite the benefits. This is due to a lack of support from the government or private health plans. A Stat article about telemedicine trends cautions that the current payment policies, medical practices, and technologies need to be adjusted if we want to consolidate telehealth’s place in society.
Get fit
What else can an older adult do to maintain their physical well-being? Exercise. Technology has made it easier for everyone to exercise, regardless of age and in any location. You can download free apps to track your food intake and create workout routines.
This Apps list for Fitness and Health includes five apps that experts recommend. Sworkit is a shorthand for “Simple Work It,” which allows you to create your own workouts based on your specific needs and limitations. Pocket Yoga, another popular option, caters to all skill levels and ages.
Develop mindfulness
Yoga can be an excellent way for people to practice mindfulness. This is the ability to accept the present moment and live in it. Mindfulness can be especially beneficial for seniors, and it is possible to improve your cognitive health by engaging in an active exercise program.
Mindfulness can include mindful walking, prayer, reading, or even dancing. All of these activities can be supported by mindfulness apps for mobile phones. Springer published research on conscious aging that found that seniors who engage in mindfulness activities using technology have a greater capacity for perspective-taking and lateral thought.
Participants had a positive experience with the app intervention. This highlights the potential for positive outcomes for older adults through better integration of technology and psychology.
