Growing older can seem very lonely. If you find yourself one of the many who call themselves homebound, take heart. With technology, there is no need to feel alone or disconnected from family.
With today’s technology, everyone can be connected to someone else. Especially if you are homebound and don’t venture out of your home more than a few days a week. There are plenty of new ways to reach out to family members and loved ones.
Senior citizen programs provide elders with the opportunity to have a bus pick them up to shop, or motorized scooters for getting around a neighborhood. You can go beyond this by having the Internet hooked up in your home and taking advantage of all the digital world has to offer.
Still not convinced the Internet is for you? Take a look at these benefits and the ways to reach out every day to family and friends through technology.
Always be learning new things.
Continuous learning is a big part of staying young at heart. Learn how to use a smartphone and a laptop. It’s easier than you imagine.
You have the perfect opportunity to have your children and grandchildren over for dinner, so they can show you how to connect with them over digital devices. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you pick it up. And many places offer online help for those just getting started.
Be an email junkie.
If you love to write letters, you still can, but with a little help from your computer. You don’t need stamps or the post office. Learn how to send family and friends email.
It’s as easy as write, point, and click. This way, you can keep in touch with grandchildren away at college or your grown children who live far away.
The best thing about email is that it is almost instant. Once you send your ‘letter,’ you can receive a reply very quickly, day or night. No more waiting for the mailman.
Learn how social media can open even more doors.
You’ve heard of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest. They are all part of social media. Here, you can link up with family, friends, interesting groups, and associates, and see what they’re doing on a daily basis. You can post updates as well.
Social media allows you to post pictures, find out more about what interests you, leave comments and show appreciation, and communicate instantly with everyone you know. It’s a great way to stay connected every day.
Play games and share them with family and friends.
Computers and smartphones all have access to games. Play solitaire, word games, hidden object games, and so many more. If you love puzzles, you’ll love being able to play online, alone, or with family. If you love Scrabble, for example, try Words With Friends.
Take charge of your health.
Medicare doesn’t mean you have to sit in a rocking chair all day. You can if you want to, but why not make the most of every day? Now you can keep track of all your medications, doctor’s appointments, and health results right from your digital devices.
Trusted sites, such as WebMD, Pillboxie, and HeartWise can help you monitor blood pressure, when to take your pills, monitor refills, exercising, and so much more.
Doctor’s offices have websites and access to online information. Don’t leave your health in someone else’s hands. With technology, it’s easier than ever for you to be in charge.
Be a part of your church or synagogue from home.
Even if you can’t get out for services, there are live broadcasts that many churches now record or stream live. You can take advantage of the ones you want. A visit from someone in the ministry will also brighten your day. You can contact churches via their websites.
Phone calls with faces.
When using video call technology such as Skype or FaceTime, you can connect through your devices and not just talk but see who’s on the other end. This is a great way to stay connected to grandchildren who are far away.
Before you know it, you’ll be getting so good at everything digital that you’ll be requesting the latest tablet or smartphone. There are a million things to do online. Use technology to share your life and interests.
For more helpful tips or information contact our Senior Care Management company today!