Technological advances are increasing rapidly, including those that can impact your senior loved one’s daily life. New technology can be confusing for some seniors, even for those who know how to use a computer or cell phone. Here are some tips to help your loved one adapt to and enjoy new technology.
1. Provide the Instructions
When you introduce your loved one to new technology, make sure to provide any instruction manuals or startup guides that came with the device or program. Unlike their younger, more tech-savvy counterparts, seniors are far more likely to follow directions or learn something the old-fashioned way instead of through random experimentation.
High-tech communication and easy-to-use devices can be helpful for aging adults, but seniors with serious health conditions may also need the assistance of professional caregivers. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Richmond, VA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
2. Ensure Access to Advanced How-To Materials
This can include anything from a book to a website with instructional videos. Many pieces of technology have guidebooks written especially for senior users. These can be a lot of help and can even be found at the local library so your loved one doesn’t have to purchase a book he or she may only need for a few weeks until getting the hang of things.
3. Encourage Learning Opportunities
Some seniors learn better in a social setting like a classroom. If your loved one fits this description, consider getting him or her involved in free or low-cost learning opportunities at the local senior center, library, or community college. Many places offer discounted technology classes and other courses for seniors.
If your loved one has cognitive issues that make it challenging to remember instructions, a professional caregiver with training and expertise in methods of cognitive stimulation can be a wonderful asset. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care service. Richmond families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
4. Take Time to Learn Together
It can be difficult to find both the time and patience to share your knowledge and savvy with your loved one. Even so, the overall experience can be a rewarding and nonthreatening way to help him or her adjust to new technology. Plus, you may also benefit from this experience in unexpected ways, such as improving your own tech skills and seeing everyday technology from a fresh perspective.
A professional caregiver can also help your loved one practice the tech skills he or she learns. Elder care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746 to learn more about our customized care plans.