Technology and Seniors: The impact on everyone in the family

Seniors and Technology – Psychological Issues for Them and Family Members

Grandma has an iPhone. Great! It may be an iPhone 6, but she is happy. Someone in the family sets it up for her. Brilliant! A week later, she doesn’t answer it, and everyone is worried. She says, “I didn’t hear it!” – the reason being she accidentally turned the sound off.

About a week later, Grandma rings on the iPhone. Yes! Success! But she says, “It’s broken. No, she can’t see the pictures you sent because it is not working right.” The reason: she has inadvertently moved things from the main screen and can’t see the message icon.

Some weeks later, a friend gets a text they shouldn’t have got. Not an inappropriate text, but Grandma sent the text to the wrong person by “fat fingering” one of the other contacts in the phone. Thankfully, it was a family friend who didn’t care what the message said. When Grandma hears about this, she feels unsafe. She says “This iPhone thing is too complicated, too dangerous, and I’m frustrated and angry with it”. It is, of course, in her mind, the fault of the phone. So she doesn’t answer the phone again. Why? Because she has put it away. She wants to go back to just using her landline.

Grandma in this account is characteristic of many older adults. While some seniors have been able to embrace technology, it usually comes with many limitations for others. In many ways, the advances that have come over the years have been wonderful for everyone. Adult children can check in with parents and grandparents from anywhere in the world with WhatsApp. Photos of grandkids can be viewed on Facebook and Instagram. Options of feeling connected to the world are there. Watching the news, watching a service or funeral from the local Church, catching up on the local obituaries. But there are hurdles.

Setting up a Zoom call can be exciting, but it may take time. Grandpa doesn’t have his audio or camera on. At times, grandparents don’t realize that they can be heard or seen as soon as they connect with audio and camera. I recall a scene in a Netflix show (Somebody Feed Phil) where a food commentator, Philip Rosenthal, calls his parents and comments on their nicely made bed in the background. His parents are shocked he can see it. It is a funny moment.

So what might be helpful psychologically to aid senior users of technology and for family members?

1. Patience is needed. Both for the user and the trainer.
2. Confidence needs to be built up. Praise and affirmations are necessary.
3. Explaining what is safe and what is unsafe.
4. Bigger models to mitigate against “fat fingering”.
5. Trying to have fewer apps on the main screen.
6. Having regular opportunities for the users to experience the benefits of connecting.
7. Recalling that new users once had black-and-white TVs with one or two channels.
8. Willing to gift iPads or tech that can help those users with vision issues.
9. Investing in good headphones as a group gift.
10. Helping older adults learn how to do virtual calls can open up the world for them. Medical appointments online are now very popular, especially if people have mobility or geographical limitations.

Many seniors want to engage with others and are hampered by technology. There are many services now that require users to scan a QR code or log in via cell phone. It can be challenging to fly these days without an e-ticket in your Apple Wallet or attend a show without your phone being scanned. The use of paper tickets is so rare now. There are so many changes for seniors. Most banking is online. Engaging in e-transfers seems scary, and also for adult children who realize that their parents may get caught up in a blunder or scam. So many texts seem real when they are fraudulent.

The Challenge of Digital Literacy

Digital literacy among seniors is a growing concern. Not everyone can cope well with it. This gap can create feelings of isolation and helplessness among seniors. For them, the idea of online banking, video calls, and even social media can be daunting. It’s not just about understanding the technology; it’s about trusting it.

The psychological impact of this struggle is significant. Seniors who feel left behind may experience a sense of inadequacy or frustration. They may worry about their ability to stay connected with family or manage essential tasks independently.

Building Digital Confidence

Building digital confidence in seniors requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not just about teaching them how to use a device; it’s about creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable exploring new technology. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Personalized Training: Tailoring the training sessions to the individual’s needs can make a big difference. Instead of generic instructions, focus on what they want to learn. Whether it’s how to make a video call, send a text, or browse the internet, personalized training can help build confidence.
2. Repetition: The more they use their devices, the more comfortable they will become. Regular practice can help reinforce what they have learned and make it easier to retain new information.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrating small victories can boost confidence. Positive reinforcement can encourage seniors to keep trying, even when they encounter difficulties. Recognizing their efforts and progress can make a significant impact on their motivation to learn.
4. Creating a Safe Space: Creating an environment where seniors feel safe to ask questions and make mistakes is crucial. They need to know that it’s okay to make errors and that help is available when needed. A patient and understanding approach can make them feel more comfortable and willing to engage with technology.

Overcoming Physical Limitations

Physical limitations can make using technology more challenging for seniors. Arthritis can make it difficult to type or swipe, while vision problems can make it hard to see small text or icons. Here are some ways to address these issues:

1. Adaptive Devices: Devices with larger screens and keyboards can make it easier for seniors to use technology. Tablets and smartphones with adjustable font sizes and high-contrast modes can help those with vision problems.
2. Voice-Activated Technology: Voice-activated assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant can be incredibly useful. They allow seniors to perform tasks without needing to type or navigate menus, making technology more accessible.
3. Assistive Apps: There are many apps designed specifically for seniors. These apps can simplify tasks like making calls, sending texts, and managing medications. They often feature larger buttons, simplified interfaces, and voice controls.
4. Physical Aids: Specially designed keyboards and mice can also help those with dexterity issues.

Family Input

Family members helping parents and grandparents navigate the digital world. Support from loved ones can make the process less intimidating and more enjoyable. Here’s how family and community can help:

1. Regular Check-Ins: Regular check-ins can provide opportunities for practice and reinforcement. Family members can help troubleshoot issues, provide encouragement, and celebrate progress.
2. Technology Workshops: Community centers and senior organizations can offer technology workshops. These workshops can provide hands-on training and a chance to learn with peers. They can also create a sense of community and shared learning.
3. Tech Buddies: Pairing seniors with tech-savvy “buddies” can provide ongoing support. These buddies can offer one-on-one assistance, answer questions, and help build confidence.
4. Online Resources: Many organizations offer online resources and tutorials designed for seniors.

Embracing the Benefits of Technology

Despite the challenges, many seniors find that technology can greatly enhance their lives. From staying connected with loved ones to accessing important information, the benefits are numerous. Here are some ways technology can improve the lives of seniors:

1. Staying Connected: Technology makes it easier for seniors to stay in touch with family and friends.
2. Accessing Information: The internet provides access to a wealth of information.
3. Entertainment: Technology offers a variety of entertainment options. Seniors can watch movies, listen to music, play games, and read books online. These activities can provide enjoyment and mental stimulation.
4. Health and Wellness: Many apps and devices can help seniors manage their health. Fitness trackers, medication reminders, and telehealth services can support their well-being and independence.
5. Convenience: Technology can make everyday tasks more convenient. Online shopping, banking, and bill paying can save time and effort. Voice-activated assistants can help with reminders, alarms, and other tasks.

Navigating the Digital World Together

As the digital world continues to evolve, it’s important for seniors to feel included and supported. By working together, families and communities can help seniors navigate the challenges and embrace the benefits of technology.

In conclusion, while the integration of technology into the lives of seniors comes with its challenges, it also offers immense opportunities for connection, learning, and independence. The journey may be fraught with frustrations and missteps, but it is also filled with moments of joy and discovery. By approaching this journey with empathy and patience, we can help our loved ones stay connected and empowered in an increasingly digital age.

Counselling and Support

Seniors embracing technology is an exciting time and yet a scary time. While some errors of older adults can appear inexplicable, we need to remember it is such a big learning curve that is coupled with cognitive decline consistent with aging. Less dexterity due to arthritis and other issues can make typing on tiny keys very difficult. Vision and hearing issues can also hamper the use of technology. This is understandable but at times very draining, too, on adult children and on grandkids who are ushered over to assist their grandparents with the “broken phone” again and again. While counselling is not needed for this issue, counselling is there for people who wish to unload how they are feeling about aging. For many adult children, seeing the decline of parents can be sad and frightening. People can get anxious about what will happen next. There are many complications around getting seniors to accept their limitations or to embrace suggestions that may enhance their lifestyle and independence for the time being. But there can be clashes. Adult children may not have always been happy with Mom and Dad, but they are now the ones who have the responsibility of caring for them. They may be the only sibling in the vicinity, and as a result, they are called upon more frequently. For anxiety or other fears around the aging process for older adults in your life or for yourself, consider counselling as another way to unpack your thoughts, feelings and maybe even your behaviour related to it.