Wiregrass Seniors Magazine November Issue NOVEMBER ISSUE | Page 24

Page 24
WiregrassSeniorsMagazine.com
Computer Tips: For Us Seniors
The Importance of Technology
and Being Computer Savvy
children moving
away, friends living great distances, and, unfortu-
As older adults we should be able to enjoy the nately, sometimes losing loved ones.
positive aspects of technology in our everyday
lives. Let’s look at some of the benefits of being The good news is that connecting with your loved
ones on email or social media platforms is that
computer savvy.
much easier thanks to technology. All you need is
a phone or a computer that has a camera, an
Fulfillment and Independence
The Internet is a place where a lot of information, Internet connection and you are good to go.
chances for social interaction, and entertainment
are found. Based on a report by the American Interacting with others makes you feel happier and
Association of Retired Persons (AARP) seniors less alone. Isolation can lead to depression.
who keep abreast with the Internet regularly can
produce a positive impact in areas of their lives According to a report by researchers from Michi-
gan State University; seniors who occasionally
such as:
spent time on the Internet drastically reduced their
Being personally fulfilled.
chances of suffering from depression.
Preserving their health.
Staying socially connected.
A literature review conducted in 2012 analyzed the
Capability to function.
Internet as a source of social support for caregivers
Getting caregivers to support them.
who were aging and facing mental and physical
For seniors who are still working, they can be challenges that come with aging.
able to deliver on their duties while working from
home thanks to technology. This relieves them The authors identified several advantages that
from the drag of daily commute and allows them Internet communication had over traditional sup-
to keep supporting themselves financially through port groups. This included not having to worry about
transportion and time and reaching a broader au-
their jobs.
dience of helpful members.
Mental and Physical Stimulation
Video and computer games are common among Goods Delivered to Your Doorstep
the youth but did you know they can benefit se- Mobility is an issue for some seniors who are dis-
niors, too? Scientists from Poland found that all abled, suffer from chronic pain, Alzheimer’s dis-
their subjects—whose age groups were between ease, and dementia. With a computer and Internet
65 and 75 years—were able to expand their at- connection, buying your groceries and shopping
tention, improve their memory, and increase their for all your needs is only a click away.
sequencing abilities after completing a series of
Chances are you will find cheaper deals. Addition-
video games.
ally, you will find that most companies will deliver
Virtual recreational programs are another feature the goods to your doorstep.
of technology which teaches you how to dance or
do yoga or aerobics all of which are beneficial to Applications that Improve Your Daily Life
Various applications can be helpful to seniors for
your physical well-being.
tracking your diet, counting the number of calories
you burn while walking, and even reminding you to
Connecting Socially
Feeling isolated is common among seniors this is do activities such as taking your medicine or walk-
ing the dog.
because most of them live alone due to their