Published on May 9th, 2019 | by Sunit Nandi

How to Teach Seniors About New Technologies

For the younger generation, it’s effortless to use new technology and to get the hang of using a wide range of gadgets, devices, and computers. However, for seniors, it can be downright difficult and even impossible for them to grasp technological advances to the point of being able to benefit from them. Because of this, it is important that you work with seniors to help them understand the different devices that they can use and how to properly utilize them in their everyday life. You may be working with a relative, friend, neighbor or someone you work with regularly who wants to benefit from computers and over electronic advances. By visiting www.jitterbugdirect.com, you can find a great phone that is built specifically for seniors.

Why Technology Can Enrich a Senior’s Life

Seniors can benefit from technology because it offers them connection far beyond what they are capable of right now. Unfortunately, seniors may experience mobility issues, which make it difficult to leave the house regularly to be with others. If seniors were able to utilize technology like computers and social media, they would be able to connect with people even while sitting in their living rooms or beds. This is also a vital option for seniors who live far away from family members. They can see pictures and video chat with their loved ones despite being hundreds of miles away from them. Teaching a senior how to use technology can be an enriching and beneficial experience for them.

Tips for Teaching Seniors About Different Technological Advances

Technology has completely changed since most seniors were kids, teens and even young adults. Computers were just being introduced for many current seniors and those who are very elderly may never have used a computer in their life. This is why many seniors find it difficult to get the hang of using technology and are realizing that it is problematic to get used to using these computers and gadgets. For example, when seniors were younger, they might have been used to beepers and large cellphones, but they weren’t used to being able to surf the web using their phone while on the go. The key to teaching seniors how to use technology is to take it slowly and to introduce one thing at a time. Remember that this can be incredibly overwhelming for them and cause them to feel confused and even frustrated. However, if you take it slow and show them one thing at a time, you’ll find that they are excited about using technology rather than feeling frustrated with it. Also, don’t force technology on seniors who don’t want to learn. You’ll probably just be wasting your time.

Learning Patience with Seniors

When working with seniors to teach them about different technological advances, it is vitally important that you are as patient as possible. When you show the senior patience, they are more likely to learn and won’t feel frustrated with you or themselves. You need to take it slow and realize that a senior may not necessarily get the hang of a new technology right away as a younger person would. It might be quite a lot just to get them used to turning a device on and off, so you’ll need to be patient in teaching them other things. However, keep in mind that the longer you take to teach the senior different things, the easier it is going to be for them to remember what you’re teaching them. They will more than likely have no problem remembering what you taught them in the future and can get the hang of using the technology on their own. Furthermore, given the challenges posed by age-related memory issues, which can complicate learning for seniors, it could be beneficial to see places that offer memory care, which could be advantageous in addressing their specific needs and enhancing their learning experience.

It can be incredibly beneficial for both you and the senior to learn about technology. If you’re teaching a loved one, friend, or neighbor, you can benefit from being able to get in touch with this person easier in the future. If you’re working with seniors on a routine basis, you will find that they are happier and more fulfilled being able to take control of their lives and connect with others. Many seniors also find it fun, entertaining and stimulating to be able to play games on their computers, phones, and tablets when they never were able to do these things before. It can be an enriching experience for everyone involved when teaching seniors about technology.

Tags: how to, new technologies, seniors, teach

About the Author

Sunit Nandi I'm the leader of Techno FAQ. Also an engineering college student with immense interest in science and technology. Other interests include literature, coin collecting, gardening and photography. Always wish to live life like there's no tomorrow.