Older adults have watched technology blossom, and many remember a time when people didn’t have computers in their homes. Technology has changed the way seniors age, as high-tech devices can easily perform tasks that weren’t possible several decades ago. If you want to help your aging loved one take advantage of the latest technology, consider the following tips.
1. Choose Scaled-Down Devices
You may want to shower your loved one with the latest gadgets, but you should first consider if you may be overcomplicating things. For instance, a smartphone with multiple apps may be confusing to a senior who just wants to make a phone call. To keep your loved one’s frustration levels down, look for devices with only a few essential features.
Seniors may need more than just electronic devices to enjoy a high quality of life. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care Roseville seniors can trust and rely on.
2. Write Down Essential Instructions
Sometimes, you can use a simple pen and sticky note to help your loved one feel more comfortable using new electronic devices. For instance, you could write a list of instructions to help your loved one remember how to log into his or her social media accounts. You should also consider attaching a list of your loved one’s favorite channels to the back of the television remote.
3. Utilize Apps and Software Features
You can use digital storage options on your loved one’s laptop to make it easier to access websites. As an alternative, you can choose to bookmark your parent’s favorite websites or set up voice recordings to walk him or her through a specific procedure. In some cases, you can automate tasks such as software updates so your loved one never has to worry about them. By using technology to increase accessibility, you can help your loved one learn how to use technological devices.
Consider taking a break from your caregiving duties to search for the right tech device for your aging parent. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Roseville, respite care is available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At Home Care Assistance, our respite caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one manage everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break.
4. Think Big
While people who travel frequently may prefer smaller devices, your loved one may have difficulty trying to read on a tiny screen. Look for larger tablets and phones with big screens that allow your loved one to easily read the text and make out what is happening in videos. These devices may be bulkier, but your loved one is more likely to use them if he or she can see what is going on.
5. Highlight Important Buttons
The different controls on devices may also confuse seniors with memory loss. For instance, your loved one may keep pressing the volume button on the remote when he or she just wants to change the channels. Consider using a sticker or a dot of paint to remind your loved one which buttons perform important tasks.
Finding the right technology for an elderly parent may not be the only difficult task you’ll encounter. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior home care. Roseville families can turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Call one of our professional Care Managers at (916) 226-3737 to schedule a free in-home consultation.