Technology can be a great tool for connecting with families, friends and loved ones. Smartphones, laptops, and tablets have become a staple of many seniors’ lives, helping them access information, connect with friends, and stay up to date with family. It’s easier than ever to share pictures of you, your family and grandchildren, watch your favorite television show, or purchase a digital copy of your favorite book. There are so many ways to keep in touch with those you care about through technology through apps, platforms and online programs. You can learn how to protect yourself online by reading our tips on online safety here.
What are the best ways seniors can stay connected through technology?
Facebook remains one of the largest and best platforms for connecting with friends and loved ones. Over the years it has become easier and easier to use, allowing all generations and age groups to enjoy its platform. Many people use it to share family photos, events, or activities to keep extended family informed about what's happening in their lives. Grandparents can view photos of grandkids, chat with loved ones through the messenger app or learn about community activities in their area. Pacifica Senior Living uses Facebook to share our events and all the fun activities we get up to in our communities. It is a great way for our residents to stay connected with their family and friends - especially those unable to visit in person.
There are so many online video chat systems now, and they have only blossomed and grown in recent years. From the frontrunner Skype, which has been around since 2003, to the more recent use of Zoom and the apple-specific Facetime, it has never been easier to call your loved ones and connect with them over video. Video calls are a great way for families and friends to stay connected - anywhere in the world! All you need to do is install the app on a tablet, phone or desktop, and you can answer or make calls with ease.
Another great way to connect with friends and loved ones is by enjoying hobbies together. When you can’t meet in person, Netflix Party - which was recently renamed Teleparty - allows you to watch movies and TV shows together. The program synchronizes your shows so that you and your loved ones can watch the same thing at the same time, and enjoy your favorite shows together.
At Pacifica Senior Living we encourage our residents to get connected through technology. Whether it is through online video chats or scrolling social media, ensuring our residents are able to connect with others is paramount to their happiness. Every week, our communities participate in Tech Tuesday. This is a designated time where they can ask questions, get assistance, and have fun together while using technology in a fun safe way.
Alta Vista Senior Living has an impressive Oculus Virtual Reality device which is a great way for our residents to play games and enjoy virtual experiences in the comfort of their home!
The Meridian at Stone Creek also uses technology to help residents interact with one another, and also stay active. Their weekly Wii bowling league is the perfect way for older or less mobile individuals to participate in games and bond with fellow residents.
Playing games together, relaxing with an e-book, scrolling through instagram or video chatting with loved ones on Skype, Zoom or Facetime are all great ways seniors can take advantage of technology to enhance their lives and stay connected.
Many of our communities also use Skylight, a simple and easy photo sharing platform. There are also a huge variety of games, many of which are ideal for seniors, such as sudoku, Wordle, crosswords or interactive games like Toon Blast, Candy Crush, Just Follow, or Bubble Pop games.
Whether playing together on game consoles or VR systems, spending quiet time on their device or connecting with others, technology is an important and ever growing part of senior living and we are embracing it as it grows.
Check out our Tech Tuesday activities or tour our communities to see the ways in which we are incorporating technology in our day to day care. Better yet, reach out to us and engage on your technology with your loved one!