Many seniors may feel as though they are isolated from the world because of the heavy reliance on technology which they do not know how to use. However, they are never too old to learn something new! There are actually many older adults that are learning how to use technology seamlessly! These older adults are able to use sites like Facebook to connect with family and friends. Studies have shown that 73% of adults that are 65 and older actually use the internet.
Although there may be widespread use of technology amongst seniors, there will be instances where they will need assistance. If your loved ones are staying in a senior living community, they can approach the concierge desk for any assistance regarding technology and its uses! Some living communities also provide digital literacy activities and events for them as well. Here are some tips to teach technology to seniors!
Explain the Value
It is important to sit down and talk to your loved ones before introducing technology in their lives. They may not fully understand its benefits and uses which will cause them to be unmotivated to learn the use of technology. Technology now allows video chats and phone calls from miles away! Showing them photos of their grandchildren on Facebook or Instagram could help them see what technology can offer them.
Additionally, technology does have many other practical applications. They can book their own doctor’s appointments online which have reminders to inform them of an upcoming appointment. They can even order groceries and get them delivered to their doorstep so that they do not need to carry so much for a longer period of time.
With technology, it is easier to keep up with the current news! Having wearable devices like FitBits and smartwatches can track important health data which can be helpful information for their doctors. Once they know the value of technology, they will be more inclined to commit to learning technology.
Address their Concerns
Oftentimes, older adults tend to worry about their security information being in the wrong hands. There was a study conducted that showed that adults who are aged 50 to 64 are concerned with privacy and data protection while being on the internet.
Helping your loved ones to set more secure passwords and having a password manager application on their various devices will definitely ease their concerns. You can help them change their privacy setting on social media so that only friends are able to view their accounts. Websites are secured when they show a padlock symbol right beside the website address, you can instruct your loved ones to look for that symbol and avoid browsing on sites that do not have it.
Emphasize on Internet Safety
It is important to remember that not every internet security issue is a result of an online scammer. Some security breaches could be due to brands wanting to collect some information for marketing. You should remind your loved ones to decline all requests that are from people they do not know on social media.
