Technology training helps seniors stay connected :: WRAL.com
This article was written for our sponsor, Liberty Senior Living.
From the home, to the classroom, to the workplace, technology advancements are making life easier across the board — especially after COVID-19 forced a more distanced way of living.
New technology offers many advantages, but some older adults find it challenging to adopt these technologies, citing a “lack of, or lack of clarity in, instructions and support,” according to a recent Frontiers in Technology article. Luckily, many senior living communities offer technology literacy classes to help older adults take full advantage of the conveniences that technology has to offer.
The digital divide
A Pew Research Center study found that although seniors are “more digitally connected than ever,” there continues to be a “notable digital divide” between younger and older generations. Among their findings:
● 42 percent of seniors own a smartphone
● 32 percent are tablet computer owners
● 67 percent say they use the internet
● 34 percent use social networking platforms
Still, many seniors struggle with understanding the full capabilities of their devices and accounts.
Soaring technology use
Not surprisingly, AARP reports that technology use during the global pandemic has increased significantly. More specifically, video chats, texting, email and phone calls are on the rise. Since many seniors were at a higher risk of serious infection, technology allowed them to stay close with the ones they love and accomplish everyday tasks without leaving home or coming in close contact with others.
A significant increase in video chat — from 50 percent before the pandemic to now 70 percent — is also taking place, with one in three people reporting weekly use. Smartphone use is also on the rise, with more and more seniors taking advantage of grocery ordering (24 percent), telehealth (40 percent) and financial transactions (53 percent).
Technology in senior communities
In most senior living communities, residents will have access to a significant amount of technology, from TVs and sound systems to tablets and smart home technology.
“Senior living is experiencing a new normal that has created a huge shift in the future of resident life and caregiving. New residents are arriving more tech-savvy than ever before,” said Nicol Whitaker, sales director of The Templeton of Cary, a Liberty Senior Living community.
At the Templeton of Cary, the team uses a platform called TouchTown, which gives potential residents an opportunity to tour individual apartment homes with a 360-degree view. They can also see what apartments are occupied and which are available to rent, as well as a layout of the community.
“It has been helpful with prospects and their families that are not living in the local area. Once someone has decided to move into The Templeton of Cary, they are able to use TouchTown for more day-to-day living purposes,” said Whitaker. “They are able to make their dining reservations through TouchTown, as well as see what activities are happening daily, menus for the week, and any other updates in the community.”
Training made easy
There are plenty of places for older adults to receive technology training. Online training is offered through programs like the AARP TEK Academy, Senior Planet and SeniorNet.
Some senior living communities also offer on-site training. At Liberty’s The Templeton of Cary community, popular training topics and opportunities include iPads, smartphones, smartwatches, e-readers and more. The community is also always in communication with residents regarding desired tech training topics.
“For residents who have not dipped their toe in the technology pool, we offer scheduled tech classes that they can attend to expand their skills. The classes are taught by our lead concierge, who also supports our residents with any assistance they may need with televisions, phones and computers,” said Whitaker. “Our residents find their assistance to be very helpful, especially when someone decides to go out and purchase the newest iPhone or iPad, and they’re not quite sure where to start.”
“Technology is a big piece of our residents’ lives, and it helps them stay engaged, informed and connected within the community, “ she finished. “The Templeton of Cary is here to guide them in any way that we can.”
This article was written for our sponsor, Liberty Senior Living.
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