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The benefits of embracing a digital way of life as you get older
We are living in a digital age.
Technology has become a huge asset in our daily lives, and the digital world has benefited so many people and helped open many doors for them later in life.
If there is one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic taught us – it is how powerful technology truly is. Not only did it allows us to continue to work and maintain a certain level of control in our life at the time, but it also allowed us to keep in contact and communicate with each other when it seemed almost impossible to do so. With the pandemic, the use of TECS (Technology Enabled Care Services) also rapidly increased as it became the safest and most viable option for obtaining care under COVID-19 social/physical distancing guidelines.
Although it is often believed that the older generation is “unwilling” or “unable” to embrace technology, internet use in the 65-74 age group is actually increasing- having risen from 52% in 2011 to 83% in 2019 and has been steadily growing ever since. (Source – https://ageing-better.org.uk)
This is why it is important now more than ever to embrace the digital way of life that is being handed to us, whether it’s simply learning how to video chat with your loved ones by yourself or going that extra mile to understand how to use technology to benefit you day-to-day too.
There are several reasons why technology can be helpful to us as we get older:
Entertainment
With the internet comes a never-ending choice of entertainment at our fingertips.
Not only is it a great way to reduce boredom, but it can also help to ‘entertain’ us in a more practical way. Whether through online shopping and browsing, allowing us to learn new skills or simply killing some time with a good virtual puzzle/ game.
Greater technology use is also associated with better self-rated health, fewer chronic conditions, higher subjective well-being, and lower depression rates for older people.
Tech doesn’t only have to be used for telecare and communication as you get older. So have some fun – the benefits will be undeniable!
Simplified communication
Although we may not notice it fully, technology affects how we communicate, learn and think. We had seen this recently when we were forced to rely so much on our digital companions to help us at a time when we could not even see or interact with each other alone.
Whether it’s being able to chat with your loved ones whenever you like or joining communities online, social media and technology can help decrease that sense of isolation we all sometimes feel when we aren’t able to see each other. Having that ability to call up your loved ones who you haven’t seen for a while just for a quick chat, although only simple, can make a world of difference.
In cases where personal alarms and telecare services come into play, technology has helped to enhance and simplify communication and prioritise safety for those who need it most. Making it as simple as clicking a button to show you are in need of assistance at that moment.
Increased independence:
An important thing for many people as they get older is ensuring that they can hold onto their independence and remain in control of certain factors of their life.
At Red Button Telecare, our main goal is to empower people to live safe, happy, independent lives with minimal change, which is why we believe that technology is one of the simplest ways to do this.
For example, telecare services and personal alarm systems are a great way to ensure that independence is still maintained in your life whilst prioritising safety and security to provide peace of mind to you and your family.
Reminders and Safety precautions
Technology isn’t just a good way to communicate or entertain us. The benefits go far beyond that in a more practical, day-to-day sense. Studies have shown that older adults with minimum and mild cognitive impairment were able to improve their memory by using assistance apps on their smartphones to receive reminders about upcoming events and activities. Showing that technology continues to be a great way to help us help ourselves.
Whether that’s by having personal alarms on your device, telecare alarms or security outlets and cameras, tech is a great way to actively keep you and your loved ones safe and maintain that peace of mind.
As ‘wearable tech’ becomes increasingly popular, at Red Button, we wanted to ensure that there was a discreet yet practical way to use our detectors and products. There is no need to worry about the look or size of devices interfering with your day-to-day or regular independence.
They are compact and designed to be far more discrete than previous elderly alarms.
So if you’re looking for a more subtle way to have that extra precaution and helping hand, we have you covered.
We know it can seem daunting, but if you, or someone you know, is looking to boost your confidence and learn more about the digital world, Age UK has put together a range of online essentials accessible to anyone who may need it. Why not give it a try?
There’s no shame in needing a little help learning something new.
Age UK – ‘Making the most of the internet.’
If you are looking for a solution for yourself, a loved one or someone you care for to find that new digital tool to help them, our team is here to help you find whatever option is best for you.
Our Red Button Alarms and TECS give the user immediate access to our friendly and highly-trained staff, with our TEC accredited monitoring partners who are there to help if you are unwell, feel unsafe or have had an accident or incident, 24 hours a day.
You can view our range of telecare packages here
Red Button
Operated by Red Alert Telecare Ltd,
3 The Courtyard, Orbital Park, Ashford,
Kent, TN24 0SY
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Accreditations
Red Alert Telecare Ltd, the operators of this service have the following accreditations
