Embracing Technology:

A Partner in Graceful Aging and Independence

In today’s digital world, technology plays a crucial role in daily life from staying connected with others, managing your health and entertainment activities, to staying safe and independent in your home.

Embracing technology can significantly enhance an individual's quality of life. The technology industry now recognizes the need to provide solutions intentionally designed for an aging population and the importance of technology in supporting the social, economic, and medical needs associated with the movement known as Aging in Place. This movement supports the idea that older adults can maintain their independence while staying connected to their families and communities safely and securely while remaining in their homes.

One of the ways an individual  can choose to Age in Place is through the use of technologies that support older adults and those assisting them. While digital technologies-computer, laptops, and phones with applications or social media platforms are often thought of as the primary devices available, not all technologies that support independent living are computer/internet based. Examples of technology include fall prevention/detection systems, wearable devices, durable medical equipment, security systems, inside/outside lighting, and bathroom/kitchen fixtures. From  the Clapper to turn on your lights to asking  Alexa/Siri to turn on a smart light, technology can assist older adults and their caregivers  with the necessary support, allowing them to Age in Place independently, safely, and gracefully.

5 Benefits of Technology for Older Adults and Caregivers:

1.Social Connections: Maintaining social connections is an essential part of quality of life for people of all ages, but more so for older adults. Connections reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, improve mental/emotional health, provide cognitive stimulation, and help maintain socialization skills. Using video chatting, online support/discussion groups, online classes, social media, platforms, smart devices and apps, enhances older adults’ ability to connect with health care professionals, assistance programs, family and friends no matter where they are located, maintaining social connections that can be vital for those who live alone or are homebound. See Resources and Links Below.

2. Health Monitoring and Management: Technology can allow older adults to stay fit, healthy, and communicate with healthcare providers. Electronic devices can be used to monitor their vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, heart rhythm, and sugar levels. Online platforms and applications (apps) provide access to healthcare services, video conferencing with healthcare providers, assistance with medication administration, and medical record organization.

3. Exercise and Entertainment: Older adults, and their caregivers, can engage in physical and mental activities through online games, support groups, virtual exercise/art classes, book clubs, and virtual training classes from the comfort of their home anywhere in the world. Technology makes it possible to stream video services, download podcasts, listen to music, take a tour of a museum, watch live zoo streams, to “visit” distant places virtually, and much more. In North Carolina, many senior centers off a variety of virtual programming. For further information about programs in your area visit North Carolina Social Bridging: Social Bridging NC.

4. Safety and Security: Technology can enhance and increase older adults’ safety at home and on the go; therefore, maintaining their independence. Technologies such as fall detection systems, smart phones with GPS tracking apps, medical alert systems, medication reminders, mobility assisting devices, smart home devices, video monitoring, automatic lighting with sensor detection, remote/keyless locks for doors/mailboxes, and home security systems are just a few of the devices available. Home modifications to accommodate age related physical needs can increase safety and support daily activities as well. When assessing your safety inside/outside the home consider needs and accessibility requirements. See Age Friendly Homes Links Below

 5. Life Necessity Availability: Shopping can be stressful and inconvenient for anyone, especially for individuals and caregivers with mobility challenges or lack of transportation. Older adults can shop online for groceries, meals from restaurants, medical supplies, clothing, other necessities or even hobby supplies and have them conveniently delivered. For those who do not want to or can no longer drive, rides can be booked through transportation agencies such as Lyft and Uber. Pharmacies (Amazon, CVS, Realo, and Walgreens) have set up home delivery services for prescription and other the counter medications. Safe and secure online banking may also be available through your bank, credit union, or other financial institution. For further resources and classes on how to set up online order programs visit: https://seniorplanet.org/.

Local Classes & Information

Technology classes and information are available throughout the region.

For further information and resources contact your local senior center:

  • Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging Digital Navigator, 252-638-3185
  • Leonn Mann Jr. Enrichment Center (Carteret County), 252-247-2626
  • George Street Senior Center (Craven County), 252-638-1790
  • Havelock Senior Center (Craven County), 252-444-6423
  • Duplin County Senior Services, 910-296-2140
  • Greene County Senior Center, 252-747-5436
  • Jones County Senior Center, 252-448-1001
  • Lenoir County Council on Aging, 252-527-1545
  • Onslow Senior Services, 910-455-2747
  • Pamlico Senior Services, 252-745-3488
  • Wayne County Services on Aging, 919-731-1591

 Technology Resources/Links

 Age Friendly Home Links

 

For further Information & Resources Contact

Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging

Dr. Cynthia Livingston, Digital Navigator

252-638-3185, Ext 3016 / 252-671-7553

clivingston@eccog.org

January Brown, Lead Program Consultant

252-638-3185, Ext. 3011

jbrown@eccog.org

 

Online Resources

 

 

 

 

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