With the rapid development of digital health today, the lack of digital health literacy in older adults is an urgent problem. Older adults must adapt to digital reform in medical treatment, pension, health management, and other fields. Therefore, we reviewed the current development status of digital health literacy among older adults. A total of 47 articles were included in this scoping review. Our findings revealed that research on digital health literacy in older adults is still in its infancy. Further development is warranted especially in terms of assessment tools and intervention methods.
These days, older adults are overrun with a surge of high-tech products focused on improving their self-reliance and safety and providing life enhancement. At a touch of a button or two, seniors can automatically pay a visit “in person” with friends and relatives through Skype, wear a pendant that responds with emergency help when needed, and even remain safe from wandering with specialized sensors attached to apparel or shoes.
The question becomes how to inspire older adults (and family members who care for them) to shift from a low-tech mindset to enjoying all that’s available to them. New Horizons In-Home Care wants to help families overcome technology hurdles for seniors. AARP reports that as few as 7% of family care providers are using technology solutions in their care, but that 71% are interested in using technology that would help make caregiving easier. Why is there such a massive gap between the interest and use of care technology solutions?
Some typical hurdles:
Stigma. Many people see the use of some technology, such as medical alert pendants, as equal to a loss of their freedom.
Finding help. Troubleshooting problems with technology leads many older adults and their caregivers to quit attempting to get devices to work.
A lack of time. Carving out time to learn and attempt something new is particularly daunting for busy families who care for their loved ones.
If you'd like to try and integrate healthcare technology into senior caregiving but are facing these difficulties, call New Horizons In-Home Care and our team in senior care in Eugene and the surrounding areas for assistance. Our competent and patient care professionals can help overcome the technological obstacles by:
Recommending technology that fits a senior's personality and challenges
Providing instruction on how to use the technology
Inspiring seniors to use technology requires catering to their specific needs and highlighting the ways it can enrich their lives. Here are some key strategies:
Focus on Personal Relevance:
Start with their interests: What are they passionate about? Can technology connect them to hobbies, learning opportunities, or communities related to those interests?
Focus on tangible benefits: Show them how technology can make their lives easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Examples include video calls with family, online shopping, medication reminders, or health tracking apps.
Address pain points: Does loneliness or isolation concern them? Show how technology can connect them with loved ones or offer access to online communities.
Make it Easy and Enjoyable:
Choose user-friendly devices and apps: Large screens, simplified interfaces, and voice controls can make technology more accessible.
Start small and celebrate small wins: Begin with basic tasks and gradually build their confidence. Acknowledge their progress and celebrate their achievements.
Offer patient, personalized support: Be prepared to answer questions, offer step-by-step guidance, and encourage exploration at their own pace.
Make it fun: Introduce them to engaging games, puzzles, or educational apps that can foster a positive association with technology.
Build Confidence and Address Concerns:
Focus on safety and security: Educate them about online scams, phishing attempts, and password security. Offer resources and tools to help them stay safe online.
Be patient and understanding: Learning takes time and patience. Acknowledge their anxieties and address them with empathy and reassurance.
Show them they're not alone: Highlight the growing community of seniors embracing technology and share the success stories of others their age.
Connect them with support networks: Introduce them to senior-focused tech classes, workshops, or support groups where they can learn from and encourage each other.
Additional Resources:
AARP Tech Support: https://www.aarp.org/technology/how-to-guides/
TechBoomers: https://techboomers.com/
Senior Planet: https://seniorplanet.org/
GrandPad: https://www.grandpad.net/ (tablet designed for seniors)
Remember, inspiring seniors to use technology is a journey, not a destination. By showing them its value, making it accessible, and offering support, you can help them unlock new possibilities and enrich their lives.
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