Most seniors find it difficult to embrace the changing times of introducing technology into their lives. They didn’t grow up with computers and cellphones, so they may not know how to use them and find it overwhelming. By teaching them the benefits of technology and how to use it their mindsets can change. A big factor in convincing seniors to try out new technology is the benefits of staying in contact with family!
Steps for Influencing Seniors to Use Technology
Showing seniors the wonders of technology can open up a whole new world for them. It can make their life easier by shopping online for groceries or booking a doctors appointment online.
Also, if you live in a small town it could be difficult to find certain items, so these can be bought online and delivered to their door! For aging seniors these things make life a whole lot easier.
Internet Training
Senior’s local libraries can offer training classes for learning how to operate devices and the internet. Seniors are usually stimulated to go to these classes by being gifted a tablet. They want to become interactive because their children will send photos of family members on social media. It makes them feel connected to the family.
Tablets can be used to expand senior’s knowledge. Most libraries will offer downloads of audio books, movies, music albums, and television shows with a library card. If they have trouble with learning how to download things they can ask a librarian to help them.
Social Connections
Getting online can open up a new world of social connections. Connect with other seniors online and find different events going on in the community. This can lead to making new friends in real life.
Online benefits can be reconnecting with old family, friends, and neighbors within the comforts of home. Teaching seniors the tools of connecting online can make it enjoyable for them. It can also make life easier by using online portals for your doctor and hospital to look up lab results and make appointments rather than waiting on the phone.
Make it Exciting
Showing seniors how to use cool apps can make being online more exciting. Teach your mom how to use google street view, so she can look up her old childhood home. Show your dad how to look up his favorite beaches on a live webcam, so he can have a virtual beach day. Fun aspects of the internet can make them eager to get back online and explore more.
Take it Easy
Take it one step at a time when showing seniors how to maneuver different things online. It can start off by checking their email and getting used to how it operates. Don’t show them too many things at once making them overwhelmed. Once they become comfortable with one task move onto the next one. Show them that you’re proud of them for learning how to operate the internet and different forms of technology.
Fairmont Grand Senior Living Community
Fairmont Grand is a resident centered senior living and memory care facility in Rapid City, SD. Our goal is to create an environment where resident well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Our wide range of services are designed to meet you or your loved one’s daily needs. We offer restaurant style dining options, a variety of physical activities, and give residents the opportunity to live as independently as possible.
If you or a loved one near Rapid City, South Dakota are considering assisted living or memory care, contact Fairmont Grand to learn more about individualized living options or tour our community.
