As a whole, humanity is getting older. Many countries now have life expectancies of 70 years or more. The proliferation of new technology will promote healthy aging and increase life expectancy by allowing individuals to lead happier, healthier lives regardless of chronological age.
To maximize the positive effects of technology on aging and lifespan, we must create tools accessible to people of various backgrounds and abilities. This article will discuss some beneficial relationships between age and technology.
The relationship between age and technology
Many of us wrongly believe technology is only for the young generation. But they can be utterly beneficial for older people as well. Some of the positive sides of technology for older people are given below.
1. Facilitating social interaction
The greatest impact that technology can have on lifespan and aging is to facilitate social interaction. According to study, It’s estimated that 44% of people aged 50 and up are more tech-savvy now than before the outbreak. Even after COVID, people will still want to interact digitally. We need to take advantage of that potential by creating experiences promoting social interaction and providing everyone access to fast, affordable internet.
2. Possibility of “aging in place.”
Digital technologies can enhance the lives of older people, allowing them to age in place while still being accessible to their friends and family. In a broader sense, it can aid in developing an all-embracing community where seniors can work and thrive.
Long-term advances in technology, enhanced analytic capabilities, and a deeper comprehension of human behavior and the biology of aging will cause a shift in emphasis from disease treatment to disease prevention and health promotion.
3. Provision of healthcare via multiple channels
The greatest improvement in health and longevity will come from humanizing technology to make healthy, happy aging more convenient.
Humans and machines will work together to achieve this. Medical practitioners can use cutting-edge sensors, health data, and AI algorithms to create effective monitoring, individualized treatment plans, and efficient health management without needing a patient to visit a clinic or hospital physically. The doctor and nurses will visit you at home or work. Individuals will have more control over the behaviors, decisions, and ways of life that contribute to their overall health since multichannel health care will be designed with them in mind.
4. Guaranteeing security
One of the most important ways technology helps elders is by reducing risks, including health issues, violence, and theft. Helping them reach out for assistance, whether for medical reasons or otherwise, can be facilitated by modern technologies like the telephone and emergency response systems.
5. Enhancing cognitive performance
Brain support is the third advantage of technology for older people. As a preventative measure against dementia, having access to memory and brain-supporting games, jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, and more is vital. Through the use of technology, elders may sharpen their minds and memories. Seniors can maintain their mental health by playing various online brain games. Tetris and solitaire are great games for improving spatial awareness and memory. Jigsaw puzzles and Sudoku are puzzle games that test your problem-solving skills.
6. Superior Accuracy in Patient Care
The infrastructure is in place for nursing homes to collect data on elder care (e.g., treatment data and rehabilitation program outcomes) via smart devices. The data collected from elder care can be processed using privacy-protecting data analytics tools, leading to advancements in medical care, mental acuity, and overall quality of life. Improved “precision care service” for all senior individuals in need can be achieved through a method that combines the expertise of caregivers with the power of data.
7. Freedom of choice
Technology’s greatest contribution to aging is expanding the options available to older people, allowing them to age with independence and pride. Older people can carry on with their regular routines with the help of modern technologies like the Internet of Things. Video chat services and other internet-based communication can assist older persons in staying in touch with family and friends, reducing their risk of social isolation and loneliness, which can negatively affect their health.
8. Access to the entertainment
The Internet, smartphones, and tablets make it possible to keep up with current events. The same holds for information regarding a senior’s interests and activities. Older people can also study a new language or investigate a new scientific field. They may also find ideas for new works of art, needlework projects, or leisure activities. Finally, technology provides much room to occupy free time, with sites like YouTube and Netflix providing access to countless films and television series.
Conclusion
We hope you have understood all the positive relationships between age and technology. Patient use of devices like old cell phones can greatly enhance the lives of the elderly. Technology can be used for lifesaving, relationship development, and relief of boredom. It can also aid in developing intellectual curiosity, boost safety, and be of service. Healthier lives, preventative care, earlier and more accurate medical diagnosis, and higher quality treatment following diagnosis all contribute to an increase in the average lifespan.
FAQs
How has technology improved life expectancy?
Technology like smart homes, AR/VR, and wearables can aid caregivers in meeting the needs of an aging population.
How does technology affect older people?
This study’s results show that older people’s use social media can have positive outcomes. Those who used technology more frequently reported improved health, fewer chronic diseases, greater happiness, and lower levels of sadness.
Can technology make life simpler for older people?
A senior can more easily converse with a caregiver not in the same location using an online connection. Social organizations, senior support networks, and other local resources are examples of how technology may aid seniors.
Are more seniors embracing technology?
Recent surveys, however, show that an increasing number of people aged 65 and up are taking advantage of the technological revolution. Despite the rising trend, 25% of the over-65 population still needs to start using the internet.
Why do the elderly struggle with technology?
Touch screens can be difficult to operate, passwords and user names can be difficult to remember and complicated, and menus and user interfaces can be overwhelming. Most technology is not designed with seniors and their unique requirements in mind.
