How Seniors Benefit from New Technology in These Changing Times

“If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” In a world where so many things are out of our control, many seniors are adopting the sage advice of Maya Angelou when it comes to using new technology. A recent study conducted by the Pew Research Center discovered that older adults (aged 60+) spend over four hours each day on their smartphones, tablets, TVs and laptops. Although there may be an initial learning curve, seniors are now more willing to adapt to new technology because they understand the benefits it can have on their day-to-day lives.

Technology to promote social & exercise habits

A great phrase to remember when it comes to exercise is, “Move it or lose it!” Daily exercise is important to maintain overall health for everyone, but especially seniors. Fortunately, technology has made it easier (and more fun) for seniors to get their daily workout in.

• Download free fitness apps like Keep Trainer, Keep Yoga and Beginner’s Workout.
• Video game systems like the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Switch offer sports games to keep seniors moving and engaged and will help them bond with their grandchildren!
• For mental exercise, seniors should try app games such as Trivial Pursuit or Tetris, or my personal favorite … Bubble Witch!

And of course, maintaining social relationships can be tough, especially in the midst of COVID-19. Luckily, there is ample technology available to keep in contact with family and friends. Seniors are now utilizing Zoom, Skype, Facetime, and more to maintain their social relationships. The staff at assisted living facilities, like UMC at Collingswood, have become well-versed in these technologies since COVID-19 and are available to help residents learn these social platforms.

Technology to monitor health & medication requirements

Monitoring health and multiple medications can be tough, especially if seniors only have themselves and a pillbox to rely on. But, where there’s a will, there’s an app! Smartphones now have apps available to assist seniors and their primary caregivers when it comes to administering medication, keeping track of medical history, and storing physician contacts.

Some popular health monitoring apps include:

• Medisafe Medication Management
• Express Scripts
• Vela for caregivers

Technology is a Breeze for the Staff at UMC at Collingswood

At United Methodist Communities at Collingswood, trained staff members are available to teach our residents how to use new technology. Staff members have the patience, compassion, and knowledge to connect seniors to the new ways of technology in a virus challenged world.

For more information about the creative use of technology at UMC Collingswood in Camden County, or any of our other assisted living communities across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities and book your visit today.