Getting online and staying connected
Technology has moved in leaps and bounds over the last 25 years, and while the younger generation take it for granted and use it with ease, for older people it can feel daunting and confusing. The good news is that while they might find it difficult at first, older people are beginning to embrace modern technology. According to the Office for National Statistics, 44% of adults aged 75 years and over were recent internet users, and recent internet use among women aged 75 and over has almost tripled from 2011.
As more and more elderly people are now using mobile phones and tablets they are realising that the technology can be beneficial, fun – even providing a much-needed lifeline.
Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits:
Health & wellbeing
Believe it or not, the internet can be good for us! While ‘Dr Google’ should never be a replacement for genuine advice from a medical professional, elderly people can look up information about health conditions, medications, the foods they are eating, ways to improve their health and much more.
Social Engagement with loved ones
Keeping in touch with family and friends across the globe has never been easier. Using the internet can improve social engagement by giving elderly people the ability to connect with relatives and friends on a regular basis. By using video chat sessions with family or friends or by joining in online communities (41% of people aged over 75 have a social media account), elderly people feel more connected and loved, thus reducing mental illness and depression.
Continual learning – and playing games
As we age, our ability to communicate and perform problem-solving skills will gradually deteriorate so staying mentally stimulated is crucial. Joining a community dedicated to a favourite area of interest can reignite once loved hobbies. From online books, educational videos and tutorials, recipes and games such as scrabble, Sudoku and chess – the internet has many ways to help elderly people remain mentally stimulated and learn new things.
Online shopping
Ordering groceries for home delivery or Christmas shopping for loved ones is just a few clicks away and the more you use it, the easier it gets. Not only is it convenient but it also creates a feeling of independence.
For those confined to one place, online banking and catch-up television are further valuable benefits of the internet. Being connected online can be a wonderful way for elderly people to continue leading a happy and contented life, to meet new people, enjoy their hobbies and learn new information from the comfort of an armchair
Other articles you may like
- Helping to combat lonelinessHelping to combat loneliness Unfortunately, 50% of individuals aged over 60 are at risk of social isolation and one-third will experience some degreeContinue reading “Helping to combat loneliness”
- Live independently at home for longerWe have spoken before about top tips for fall proofing your home and this really can have a significant impact as falls will often be a key contributor to needing more round the clock care as they can have serious implications for the elderly depending on the severity.
- Three huge benefits of walking for the elderlyThree huge benefits of walking for the elderly Did you know that May is National Walking Month? As the country is opening upContinue reading “Three huge benefits of walking for the elderly”
- What care options are available?Families going through the emotional stress of placing a spouse or relative into care, often tell us they find the terminology confusing so this blog aims to help explain the different types of care available. Understandably, most elderly people want to live independently in their own homes for as long as they can. But many people are not aware of what their local options are.
- A moment to reflect this Aprild you know that we celebrated National Reflection Day recently? Reflection day is about taking time to connect, supporting the millions of people who are grieving and remembering the family, friends, neighbours and colleagues we’ve lost over the last two years. Marie Curie spearheaded the campaign for a Day of Reflection to mark the anniversary of the beginning of the first UK Lockdown – and to let bereaved people know that they are not alone.
- What is home care?Many of our clients want to live independently in their own home for as long as they can. It is for this reason they choose us as the home care service we provide in and around the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks areas helps facilitate this.
- Why hire an at-home carer?Why hire an at-home carer? We love our families dearly and in an ideal world we’d all be able to take care ofContinue reading “Why hire an at-home carer? “
- Welcoming in spring at Birchwood Care ServicesWelcoming in spring at Birchwood Care Services Spring has sprung at Birchwood Care Services. The official start to the season might not beContinue reading “Welcoming in spring at Birchwood Care Services”
- Sharing the Valentine’s love this FebruarySharing the Valentine’s love this February Celebrating our staff This month, Birchwood Care Services is sharing the Valentine’s love with a blog celebratingContinue reading “Sharing the Valentine’s love this February”