One of the challenges that many older adults face is social isolation and loneliness, which can have negative effects on their physical and mental health. According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, more than one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated1. Social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, dementia, cardiovascular disease, and mortality2.
Fortunately, technology can offer some solutions to help older adults stay connected and engaged with their family, friends, community, and society. Technology can enable older adults to communicate, socialize, learn, and participate in various activities that can enrich their lives and well-being. Here are some examples of how technology can support older adults in this regard:
- Video calling: Video calling is a technology that allows users to see and hear each other in real time through a computer, tablet, smartphone, or other device. Video calling can help older adults maintain or strengthen their relationships with their loved ones who live far away or are unable to visit them in person. Video calling can also help older adults feel less lonely and more involved in their family’s lives. For example, they can join family celebrations, watch their grandchildren grow up, or share stories and memories3.
- Online platforms: Online platforms are websites or applications that allow users to access or create various types of content, such as information, entertainment, education, or social interaction. Online platforms can help older adults expand their horizons and interests by providing them with opportunities to learn new things, discover new hobbies, or pursue their passions. Online platforms can also help older adults connect with other people who share their interests or experiences, such as online communities, forums, groups, or clubs4.
- Smart devices: Smart devices are devices that can connect to the internet or other devices and perform various functions or tasks. Smart devices can help older adults enhance their independence and safety by providing them with assistance, convenience, functionality, or monitoring. For example, smart devices can help older adults control their home environment (such as lighting, temperature, or security), remind them of their medication or appointments, track their health or activity levels, alert them of emergencies or falls, or connect them with caregivers or health professionals5.
These are just some of the ways technology can help older adults stay connected and engaged. Technology can be a powerful tool that can improve the quality of life and well-being of older adults. However, technology also comes with some challenges and barriers that need to be addressed by stakeholders in a responsible and ethical manner. Therefore, it is important that technology is designed with the needs and preferences of older adults in mind, that older adults are educated and supported on how to use technology effectively and safely, and that technology is used in conjunction with human support and interaction to ensure its optimal use and impact.
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