Technology is for Everybody, Especially Seniors
It may come as no surprise that Florida hosts a sizable population of people over 65, but did you know the majority of Florida’s older adults live along its west coast? As providers in the region respond to population changes and pivot to serve people now and in the future, everything will evolve and be innovated by technology. There’s just no going back.
Does this sound like someone you know?
I retired before computers were used at work.
Computers make me nervous; I think I’ll break it!
I only use my smartphone for calls.
I’ve gotten along this far without the internet…
However, is the expectation that older adults can adopt the internet and tech devices, realistic? Absolutely, because I’ve seen it many times. Older adults are eager to learn, and they have as much use for technology as students and working age people. Just like their younger counterparts, older adults’ abilities with technology will vary widely. With time and practice, seniors come to love being online and using devices. They just need the right opportunities to learn to use technology meaningfully, utilizing strategies for learning new skills that work in this phase of their lives.
You won’t break your device, I promise.
Just don’t run over it with your car!
I started helping asset-limited older people sign up for affordable internet and devices in 2015 and since then, I’ve also taught digital literacy to people of all ages. As a former K-12 teacher, all my students are my favorites, but I think teaching seniors to use the internet and devices is just about the most fun you can have. I also believe it’s critical work, because technology is essential to helping seniors stay active and connected to the people they love and the things they enjoy. Moreover, we are all living longer than ever in our human history, so why not keep learning new things to stay sharp and age well?
No one is born knowing technology.
Young people are just less fearful of it because they’ve been around it all their lives.
There’s much to explore on seniors and technology and we can’t dive into everything here, so if you’re a caregiver or a senior, what’s next? I think a good place to start with older adults who might be hesitant or fearful of technology, is to ask:
How do you keep busy and enjoy life?
What devices do you already own? What do you like/not like about them?
Are you already subscribed to services like Netflix?
Responses to these questions can illuminate next steps for a senior to get started (or keep going) with technology. For example, my father loved to work on puzzles after he retired. He was also very curious about how to use my tablet, so I downloaded a free, simple tangram app that was easy to use. This was also a great way for him to start using a touch screen. Dad loved the tangram app and soon, he was ready for other games.
In addition to enticing them with an interesting topic, the right tech trainer is also essential for seniors. Individuals with tech knowledge, a certain demeanor, teaching experience, patience, and most of all love and respect for the older generation, are key traits. Cheers to September being National Senior Center Month and cheers to you and your tech journey!
Maribel Martinez is a respected digital equity expert with 25+ years of experience in digital inclusion, technology integration, and education management. For more information about help with technology skills for older adults, email maribel@maribelmartinezconsulting.com or visit maribelmartinezconsulting.com.
