New Technology and Aging

As with any new skill, mastering new technologies takes longer as we get older. Some older adults struggle with isolation and disengagement. The current generation of older adults is fighting back with technology. Social media keeps them in touch with family, friends and interests. More recently developers are designing social media apps for older adults.

Online technology holds the promise of allowing people with disabilities or dementia to stay at home and live independently as long as possible. That is important in a large country like Canada where family and services may be spread across the country, not very near to where you live. Videoconferencing may cut long commutes for medical appointments and remote monitoring is possible to avoid hospitalization for chronic conditions.

People with dementia may need to stop driving at some point, increasing the risk of isolation and depression. Staying connected with technology goes a long way to reduce these issues.

Older adults are now becoming much more comfortable using the latest technology. In the future, the advances of technology are only going to increase and speed up as assists and tools to make older adults’ lives better and more interesting.