Technology can often seem daunting and difficult to older people who are unfamiliar with the various devices and terminology. However, it can provide effective services and assistance to older people.
By explaining the benefits and providing them with a comprehensive framework for technology, you can convince them to integrate it into their lives:
Explaining the technology
1. To convince seniors to use technology, you need to explain what it is in simple terms so that you can understand it. Remember that most seniors are not familiar with it. So simple descriptions and vocabulary are needed. Take your time and explain in detail.
- Avoid using brand names. For example, use the word phone instead of iPhone or the word tablet instead of iPad.
- Keep it simple. You don't need to tell seniors all the product names or the differences between them. Explain the basic functions of the devicesthat will meet their needs.
- Think about what information you need to provide and how you need to describe it to someone who has nothing to do with technology.
- Compare the technology product to something they already understand. Say, “A cell phone is like your landline, but you can take it anywhere.”
2. Explain the benefits of technology. Technology can be very helpful. Explaining its advantages will give seniors an extra incentive to continue learning and using a new technology. Whether it is the Internet, a smartphone or a Smart TV, the benefits are many.
- Explain the benefits based on what they are interested in and the needs they want to meet. For example, they may want to stay in touch with family or see more photos of their grandchildren. Show them how technology can help with this.
- Try explaining to them how using an iPhone or Facebook will help them stay in touch with family members across town, across the country, or across the world.
- Explain how they can monitor health and fitness using an Apple watch.
- Show them how a smart TV can allow them to record TV shows to watch anytime they want.
- Explain the above in simple words
3. Address physical limitations. Many seniors resist learning new technology due to physical limitations (vision or hearing problems, chronic or significant illnesses, etc.). Addressing these physical limitations will help both you and the senior understand what technology can and cannot be used.
For example, iPhones are often thin and smooth, so they can fall out of your hands, especially if you have arthritis or tremors in your limbs. In this case, a thicker protective case and screen protector are needed so that the phone is protected in the event of a fall.
Support during their transition
1. Show them how to see photos of their children and grandchildren. If we take the time to show (practically) seniors how technology works, they are more likely to understand it and adopt it in their daily lives. Give them a few lessons on how to turn devices and apps and show them some basic functions. Show them how to make a phone call, send a text message or email , etc.
Show them a little at a time. If you give them too much information, they may get stressed and give up. Explain to them that it is normal to have a delay in learning a new technology.
2. Offer technical support. Seniors will likely need ongoing support. Help seniors whenever they encounter problems and explain to them what the solution is (if it is simple). willingness to help them motivates them to continue using technology because they know they can always get help.
Let the elderly person know that they can call you and ask you any questions they have.
3. Communicate with seniors through new technologies. For an elderly person to adopt new technology, they must be “forced” to use it. For example, send them a message on their cell phone or Facebook. This way they will learn how it works and begin to become familiar with it.
Use arguments
1. Don't get discouraged when they say no. Many seniors resist new technologies. Instead of getting discouraged by a lack of understanding or a lack of acceptance, stay calm and try again.
2. Tell them they can stay connected with family, loved ones, or friends. Some seniors may not see the point of new technologies. However, the more you emphasize the importance of contact with the rest of the family, the more likely they are to want to try what you suggest.
Try using phrases like, “Well, we all use smartphones now. We video call each other every week,” “We’re all on Facebook, so we can share our family memories with everyone, no matter where they are.”
Show them how you use technology. For example, you could include them in a video call with a loved one. This could pique their interest.
3. Ask them why they avoid technology. Asking seniors why they are not interested in using new technology can provide information that will help you understand what processes you should follow to help them understand its importance.
