The 2018 Guide to Best Technology Resources and Tools for Seniors
Like Jeff, many older adults haven’t had the occasion to learn about and use computers and other devices in their everyday lives. As a result, these technologies can feel unfamiliar and intimidating. But we all can learn new tricks. In fact, it’s possible to exercise the mind and offset cognitive decline by engaging in unfamiliar tasks and using new technologies. On top of that, innovative technology resources and tools for seniors are emerging all the time that can help them continue living in their homes safely, comfortably, and independently.
The Barriers to Technology Accessibility and Acceptance Among Seniors
The Ultimate List of Technology Resources for Seniors
Technology resources for seniors can be extraordinarily beneficial, but they are also overwhelmingly abundant. This list can help you get started on the search to find the right tools to support you or a loved one toward a secure, full life.
Unlocking the Future of Aging
For every one of us, aging is inevitable and our personal challenges will evolve over time. As the senior demographic grows ever larger, industries are introducing groundbreaking technological solutions to the challenges of health and home care that pave the way for better quality of life in our later years.
Home Robots Can Enable Our Quixotic Vision for the Future of Aging
Robots offer unique solutions to the challenges of aging in place: from assistance with daily tasks to enabling long-distance communication with friends and relatives.
Assistive Technology Devices Create a Comfortable, Easy-to-Use Computer Interface for Seniors
Digital tools make technology use more accessible for older adults with limitations and are often just a setting away on your device, and ergonomic furniture solutions offer customized comfort, so technology can become an essential resource in your regular lifestyle.
Innovative Technology for Seniors: How the Evolving Digital Era Is Influencing the Way We Age
Find out how Institute on Aging is leading the way with innovative home care technology solutions and how other systems could enhance your quality of life at home.
Read more about compassionate social media communication and the opportunities for connecting and sharing grief experiences from a distance.
Caregiving at Home
Caregivers are always looking for creative new ways to improve the lives of their loved ones, and emerging technology answers the call. With everything from remote monitoring to help aging adults live independently to programs that help match caregivers with older adults, tech startups are revolutionizing home-based care.
Online Resources Can Help Caregivers with End of Life Paperwork
Paperwork is often an overwhelming task, but online databases can help you keep all important paperwork, medical history, and directives organized and accessible.
IoT Sensors and Data Collection Becoming “Eyes and Ears” for Home Caregivers
Adults who are aging in place may not need daily care and assistance, but IoT sensors can monitor vital signs and environmental conditions to ensure that they are healthy and safe living independently.
How Can Innovative Technology Help Long-Distance Caregivers Care for Aging Parents?
Long-distance caregiving can be challenging, both logistically and emotionally. But technology resources give us efficient ways to keep up with care management and to stay in touch as often as possible.
Help at Home: How Technology Aids Senior Personal Care
Apps and other convenient programs can assist older adults with regular personal care and organization, empowering them to cultivate their own well-being.
Tools for Healthy Living
A healthy lifestyle should not be an overwhelming challenge, even for aging adults. With the help of loved ones, caregivers, community support, and technology resources, seniors can truly thrive.
Medication Management Technology Can Assuage a Senior’s Prescription Worries
Keeping medications and pill schedules organized is critical for good health and well-being. Programs that help you keep things straight take some of the stress out of medication management and reduce the risks of losing track.
Rethinking In-Home Healthcare Technology Distribution: Connecting Companies & Caregivers
How do you find out about the revolutionary technologies that could greatly improve your quality of life? Caregivers play an important role in exploring tech resource opportunities and getting their loved ones connected.
Health-Monitoring Technology for Seniors is Simplified and Accessible in the Cloud
Technology expands our ability to interact with our health and healthcare in more informed and proactive ways. Apps for aging adults and caregivers make health tracking and care management convenient.
Read more about how video games offer seniors a fun mental workout.
Bay Area Technology Resources
For many, the San Francisco Bay Area has become an ideal retirement location thanks to a wealth of technological advancements and opportunities. The Bay Area helps lead the country in digital literacy for aging adults, and the area’s abundance of science and imagination provides constantly expanding resources to help seniors stay on top of technology.
Computer Classes for Seniors in the San Francisco Bay Area: How to Enhance Your Tech Skills
Digital literacy opens doors to so many resources and freedoms in later life. Find out where you can take a computer class in the Bay Area, helping you challenge your mind and expand your support network.
On-Demand Services in the Tech-Savvy Bay Area Facilitate Aging in Place
Websites and mobile apps put opportunities for local transportation, shopping, chores, and home maintenance right at your fingertips.
Grocery Delivery for Seniors in San Francisco Offers Innovative Options for Healthy Meals in the Bay
When access to fresh, healthy food becomes a challenge, there are easy, reliable grocery delivery options that you can connect to online. Build your grocery list and schedule your Bay Area delivery.
Resources for Socialization and Support
Isolation among seniors living at home is a real concern as it can lead to depression and declining health and personal care. Caregivers and family members can encourage social activity in a variety of ways, especially by using technology to help them revitalize old connections and discover new ones.
Virtual Senior Centers Provide Valuable Opportunities to Socialize
The Internet makes socialization possible without even leaving home. While it may not replace in-person companionship and support, a virtual senior center is a multi-purpose resource where older adults can find friendship, learning, assistance, and encouragement toward an active lifestyle.
How to Make New Friends When You’re Older: San Francisco Group Meetups Help Aging Adults Connect
To bridge the gaps in larger communities, online social networks allow people with similar interests connect, meet up, and share their passions in friendly company. Seniors in San Francisco and other cities around the country can register for a free account to discover local meetup groups or even start their own.
Finding Compassion and Understanding in Online Support Groups for Caregivers of Older Adults
In order for caregivers to be fully present and supportive of their aging loved ones, they need to take care of themselves and avoid caregiver fatigue and burnout. Online support groups are a great way to connect with others experiencing similar challenges and gain helpful tools—and to be assured that they’re not alone.
Mobile Apps and Tools
The functionality and possibilities of our smartphones expand all the time and these convenient tools can offer aging adults ample resources for happy, healthy, independent living. Caregivers and family members can help seniors access mobile devices, discover useful apps, and help them learn how to use these programs and adapt them to their needs.
New Apps Help Caregivers Protect Seniors from Financial Abuse Online
While the Internet offers abundant and diverse resources for seniors, it also comes with risks, especially as seniors may be vulnerable to financial scams and abuses online. Along with education for older adults and their caregivers, mobile apps can help to keep track of sensitive information and avoid risky oversights.
Simplify Managing Your Loved One’s Diabetes with Help from Fitness and Nutrition Apps
Diabetes can be challenging to manage, whatever your age. Almost like virtual assistants, the latest apps have easy-to-use interfaces and adaptable features to help aging adults keep track of their glucose levels, food intake, and general well-being.
Telehealth Technology for Seniors: Appointments Can Now Be as Simple as Downloading an App
Some health concerns require in-person attention, but other conditions may benefit from a conversation with your doctor from the comfort of your own home. Telehealth apps allow for virtual appointments, so seniors can feel secure and cared for while living at home and stay connected to healthcare providers when their mobility is limited.
Technology Integration for Graceful Aging
When caregivers, family, and friends help to make the transition to technology use smooth, aging adults can feel empowered and open-minded about the boundless resources that await them. Technology can simplify daily routines, expand social opportunities, protect health and wellbeing, and help aging adults feel more empowered and independent as they connect with the digital age and its incredible advantages.
Icon Source: Creator Shannon E Thomas. Modified under CC By 4.0.
