Modern technology and personal electronic devices are such a part of daily life that you probably can’t imagine how you would get along without them. However, for many elderly people, technology is intimidating and they can’t really see the benefits. At the same time, they often miss interacting with friends and family members that live both near and far. You can use technology to connect your elderly parents with their loved ones, just as you do. The only difference is that you need to teach your aging parents how to use electronic devices and get them set up on their own.

Here are just a few ideas for how to use technology to connect elderly parents with family members across the world:

• Texting and messaging apps: While your aging parents may not know much about types of phones and service plans, they shouldn’t have much trouble learning how to text with family members. Getting them a smart phone or tablet makes it easier than ever to keep in touch with everyone by texting.
• Social media: While not every social media platform might be right for your aging mom or dad, there are several that would help them keep up with what everyone is doing. They’ll be able to see pictures, read funny or frustrating stories that others post, and even share silly memes. Learning how to use social media will definitely help aging parents bridge that generation gap.
• Video chats and voice messaging: Imagine the excitement your elderly parents will have when they realize they can see the faces of their grandchildren and children that live far away without having to travel. Video chat software and voice messaging apps are convenient, clear and easy to learn.
• Email: Elderly parents may like the throwback feeling of writing up a letter to a loved one but bringing it into the modern times via email. They can even send a group email and keep everyone up to speed on what’s taking place in their lives. It only takes a few minutes for people to write back, making elderly parents very happy indeed.

All your elderly parents need is a patient teacher and the simplest approaches to using electronic devices and related technology. Although they may be reluctant at first, their desire to keep in touch with loved ones usually inspires them to keep at it. Many people find it helpful to write down the steps needed to access a particular platform or software. Then, your elderly parent can refer to it frequently until they learn it.

As with teens and kids, you will need to monitor your elderly parent’s activity on line. That’s because they are susceptible to predators, scams and even inadvertently purchasing things. Teach your aging parent how to maintain a digital presence and stay safe online. Make sure they share usernames and passwords with you and always put their settings on the most private levels.

When seniors learn to use technology properly, it can be a powerful tool that lets them connect with friends and family. The opportunity to strengthen family bonds is limited only by their inability to start the process on their own. As part of your elderly care responsibilities, please consider guiding your elderly parents into the digital world of today.

Source:
http://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2014/is-this-the-end-of-the-nursing-home.html

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in West Memorial, TX, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.

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Donna Wrabel, LMSW

Co-Owner at At Your Side Home Care

For most of us, the word "home" evokes warm feelings of comfort, security and well-being. For older adults, home also means holding tight to cherished memories and maintaining self-esteem and independence. When illness, injury or age make life a little more challenging, remaining at home in a comfortable, familiar environment encourages recovery and enhances the quality of life. Home can be defined as a private residence, an independent or assisted living facility or even a short term stay in the hospital, we recognize the additional benefits provided by a personal, professional assistant.

Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.

Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week

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