Technology: How connected are you?

5 reasons seniors should embrace social media
December 01, 2015

While some older adults still have a love/hate relationship with technology, many see the benefits and have embraced it.

Advances in technology have made certain tasks simpler for seniors including:

  • Staying in touch with loved ones and sharing photos
  • Engaging in new hobbies
  • Keeping current with the local and world news
  • Tracking health & wellness

How familiar are you with the options available to you or your loved ones? Are you wondering about which mobile devices will best serve you in your life? The truth is that figuring out which forms of technology will best serve you can be daunting.

Here are some questions to consider:

  • How often do you log onto the internet?
  • What activities would you like to do on the internet?
  • Are you familiar with or engage in activity on social media?
  • Do you use Skype or Facetime?

If you’re an active user of technology, you’re right on track with a growing number of internet and social media users over the age of 65.

According a research study by Pew Research Center, in 2014:

  • 6 in 10 seniors, or 59%, reported using the internet
  • 46% of online seniors use social networking sites, such as Facebook
  • Smartphone adoption for older adults sits at just 18%
  • 27% of older adults are likely to own a tablet or e-book

For more on the study, check out: pewinternet.org

No matter if you’ve embraced technology and include it into your everyday routines, there are some who are still on the fence or aren’t sure where to start.

Here are a couple ways in which an older adult can incorporate technology in their everyday lives:

  • Email

    An email address is a way to stay connected with friends and family.

  • Smart Phone

    A smart phone can be used for so much more than making calls. Your smart phone doubles as a pocket-sized computer that includes functions such as a calendar, email, internet connection and more. A smart phone can also serve as your own personal assistant with voice-activated features.

  • Tablet & e-reader

    If you wondering how an e-reader is different from a tablet, we can tell you! An e-reader is a single-use device. It allows you to read text. The screen of an e-reader was specifically created to reduce glare. This makes it easier to read your favorite books and magazines. A tablet is a useful device for downloading books, especially if they have graphics and photos. But, tablets also serves as a place to check emails, log onto the internet, play games or video chat with family and friends.

  • Fitness Monitors

    Fitness monitors have become a trend and are a very helpful tool for keeping track of your health and wellness routines. They are lightweight and fit around your wrist, like a watch. If you’re a walker, runner, or just generally conscious of your health, this is a nice piece of technology to own.

More Information

The Christian Village at Mason is dedicated to providing our residents with the latest information on technology available to them. We offer assistance that our residents may need to navigate their personal computer, smart phone, or tablet. Visit our website or on social media at Facebook or Twitter for continued updates.

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