While teens have moved on from Facebook, the older generation has found that it serves them quite well. They have recognized that others in their stations in life are also online and have used it to start discussion groups for life and health issues pertinent to them. Doctors and other professionals recognized this as well. They have set up social media pages for this demographic. In that way, they can efficiently communicate with this patient group. All in all, senior social media use keeps growing and shows no signs of abating.
Having a gateway to the outside world is critical once the elderly become homebound. We know that a major problem of the elderly is a devastating feeling of loneliness and isolation. Having said that, encouraging new technology adoption as an avenue for its alleviation is a winning solution. Keeping in touch with old friends and relatives as well as keeping current with the events of the day could help the elderly feel vital. Thus, this counter-intuitive marriage of the elderly with technology might be the perfect antidote to what ails them.
Internet Usage in Elderly
According to the Pew Research Center, internet use among those 65 and older grew 100% between 2009 and 2010 showing the largest growth in a demographic. They use it to bridge the geographic gap between them and their loved ones far away and as a tool to re-connect with friends from a far off time. Studies show that the internet has become an important tool in reducing isolation, loneliness and other depressive symptoms. Seniors have discovered that Skyping is a great way to bring relatives from far away destinations right into their living rooms. It has become a healthy emotional outlet and word of its benefits has spread like wildfire among the elderly.
A Path to Health
A new study out of England and Italy finds that when the elderly are trained in the use of social media as well as Skype and email, they perform better cognitively and experience improved health. Senior social media use has so many benefits.
During a two-year period, 120 seniors in the UK and Italy aged 65 and above were given specially designed computer training. This group was compared against a control group that did not receive any. Among those that used these tools, the mental and physical capacity improved. On the other hand, the control group experienced a steady decline.
There are hypotheses as to why this occurred. “Human beings are social animals,” as stated by Thomas Morton who led the study out of the University of Exeter’s psychology department. It is amazing how satisfying our basic social needs can have synergistic effects on our overall health. One woman reported feeling “invigorated” rather than “slipping into a slower pace”. She reported caring more about her appearance and losing weight. Three-quarters of the test group with computer training found email and Skype useful. However, fewer than half liked Facebook as much.
The Office for National Statistics in the UK reports that the elderly over 65 have increased their internet use from 9% in 2006 to an astounding 37% in 2013. Moreover, the elderly population in Europe set to grow from 17% to 30% by 2060. Pairing their well-being with this ever growing usage of technology can have dramatic effects on their quality of life.
Emphasis on Educational Uses
Older adults emphasize the informational and educational aspects of the internet using it in an encyclopedic fashion. They often use it to visit government sites or to research financial issues. They also use it to find out health information and to connect with others experiencing the same health challenges. Twitter has become popular for keying into specific news sections they want to follow while many of the elderly have uncovered the beauty of the digital travelogue, others value having a book review available through a simple click.
Groups for the elderly experiencing specific ailments as well as groups directed at their caregivers are all readily available to those elderly who have increasingly availed themselves of this supportive network. Dementia to depression to diabetes – all can give and receive support in the comfort and convenience of their home. Overcoming loneliness is that much easier through senior social media use. As more and more of the population ages and sticks closer to home, the internet as a support and educational tool becomes ever more important.
Improving Cognitive Ability
In addition to the psychological benefits, the internet has become an important way to exercise the minds of our senior citizens. Studies have shown that playing video games even 1 hour a day, 3 days a week can improve the focus and multi-tasking abilities of the elderly. A by- product of this activity can be increased socializing with younger friends and relatives.
Internet Classes & Training for Senior Social Media Use
Those in the eldercare field feel that the computer, and even the use of that word, could be a barrier to entry for many of the elderly. As such, they prefer to shift the focus of technology adoption. They are emphasizing computers over tablets since they tend to be more user-friendly.
Computer classes at senior centers are growing in popularity. They offer computer basics as well as instruction in using email and other social media platforms such as Facebook. The Jewish Council for the Aging in Washington, D.C. offers an entire Senior Tech program. The AARP has a whole Social Media Education Center on their website devoted to this. It provides step-by-step guides with screenshots in PDF format. You could print it out to explore the topic in the safety and comfort of your own home.
David York Agency Home Healthcare Helps Seniors
At David York Agency, we understand the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly and are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and down. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other home healthcare services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (908) 373-5300. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
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