Find Everything
While the digital era can seem daunting as we get older, the benefits of embracing the digital era can far outweigh the drawbacks. Let's consider some of the big benefits of entering your 'digital era':
1. Connection
The digital era has made communicating and staying connected to loved ones and friends much easier, with applications like Zoom, Facebook, Messenger and WhatsApp allowing us to stay connected at the touch of a button. There are also online communities that include support groups, hobby groups, sports communities and even history groups, you name it, and there's a community online talking about it. These platforms can help combat loneliness and foster a sense of belonging. They have proven very beneficial for seniors, allowing them to move with the times and stay connected in meaningful ways in the digital era.
2. Value
Although it can be daunting for older people to rely on tech in their daily lives, there is no limit to how useful it can be. From fitness trackers, e-books and audiobooks to online learning, shopping and banking, the digital era has transformed life as we once knew it. Some of the main benefits for seniors 'in their tech era' include access to information, photo sharing, health and fitness, medication tracking, cognitive games apps, news apps, online courses, financial management, and communities. Devices such as robot vacuums, smart speakers and voice-activated assistants can help make daily tasks less energy- and time-consuming.
Notably, health-and-safety-focused technology is especially beneficial for seniors. Cybersecurity, two-factor authentication, electronic doorbell cameras and smart panic buttons are all invaluable tools. Hearing aids, AirPods, electronic pill dispensers, fall detection sensors, smart thermostats, and emergency life alert apps can all bring reassurance and ease the worries of senior citizens and their loved ones.
3. Independence
Embracing technology allows seniors to take charge of their lives and feel empowered, fostering independence and confidence. While embracing technology can be nerve-wracking, some measures can make the process of digital learning more manageable; a simple search on YouTube, for example, is a fantastic way to learn how something works. You can always ask for support and encouragement, seek suggested training courses, or seek assistance in choosing digital devices with accessible designs, large fonts, and user-friendly interfaces.
Considering these points, it is clear that embracing the digital era can be of enormous benefit to seniors—in fact, it could very well benefit them more than youngsters!