Independent Living: The Power of Technology

Hello world, here we come!   Contrary to popular opinion, seniors are open to thoughts and ideas that can make their lives easier. There is no turning back.  Technology is here to stay.  Once you embrace the idea that technology can help you stay in your own home longer, the sky is the limit.  Smart seniors are looking into technologies that will help them remain independent, engaged, well and vital. 

 

Cheryl Walker wrote about the power of technology in an article for the Washington Jewish Week (May 14, 2009).  It wasn’t very long ago that we still heard a good many seniors professing a lack of interest in what they called “new fangled gadgets,” but that didn’t last long.  After all, these were the same people who were excited when radio and television were first introduced.  .

 

While some seniors get defensive because they are apprehensive about learning how to use a computer, plenty of them are signing up for classes every day. Realistically they can handle anything. No fear they say, and no reason for fear.   

 

Computers are the first step when it comes to helping senior’s keep in touch with their friends and families.  It is a tremendous boon for those who are homebound.  They can shop, read the news, play games and interact with others in similar situations.  Seniors are now making up one of the fastest groups of users on the Web.

 

Despite the challenge of learning the technology, for many seniors using the Web, e-mailing, playing video games and updating their Facebooks have become everyday activities.   Technology expands to include the use of cell phone, home safety and security features, voice amplifiers, robotic vacuum cleaners, and systems to remind you to take your pills.  Car door and bumper guards protect those with depth perception problems, video door phones, and dozens of other technologies are available to help people monitor everything from health problems to home safety.

 

Yes, technology is here to stay.  Researchers are meeting the challenge and are busily developing products and services especially for seniors.  An article by Michelle Maltais (Chicago Tribune, January 2, 2010) asserts that seniors are getting more and more comfortable with technology.  Seniors are becoming savvier; many older people are learning how to use electronics and as a result companies are responding to their needs.