You Can Become a Tech-Savvy Senior in Just 10 Days!

Keeping up with all the changing technology may seem overwhelming, and it can be difficult to know where to start. However, with the right guidance, you can become comfortable navigating a computer or mobile device as if you've been doing it your entire life.

At Falcons Landing, we know the importance of using technology to help seniors stay in touch with loved ones and access resources to make life easier and more convenient. Our staff will work patiently with each resident to help them gain crucial technological skills. Keep reading to learn about the technology benefits for seniors and how you or a loved one can become tech-savvy in no time.

Technology Benefits for Seniors
According to Pew Research Center, 4 in 10 seniors now own smartphones. Although seniors consistently report lower technology use than others, they are the fastest-growing demographic of the online community. More older adults are realizing the benefits of using technology, whether it's to reduce isolation or improve their health. Here are some examples of how technology helps.

Maintaining Contact With Loved Ones
Some seniors may hesitate to move to an Independent Living community because they don't want to be away from loved ones. Although nothing can replace the comfort and joy of spending time with friends or family in person, technology has created unique ways to connect digitally when a physical visit isn't possible.

Smartphones offer several communication methods, including phone calls, video chats, emails and text messages. You can also stay in touch through social media platforms, such as Facebook or Instagram. Because Falcons Landing offers campus-wide Wi-Fi, you'll always be able to use your device, no matter where you are in the community.

Ensuring Personal Safety
Technological advancements have made it easier for seniors to maintain their independence without worrying about how to access help during an emergency. For example, medical alert devices, such as bracelets or pendants, can connect you to a response center the moment you need help. Some even come with GPS features, which can be helpful if you need assistance while out walking or running errands.

Improving Brain Activity
Technology can also benefit seniors by improving memory skills and cognition. A study published in The Journals of Gerontology found that digital literacy helps reduce cognitive decline in adults aged 59 to 80. One way seniors can use technology to stay sharp is by engaging with games or apps that assist with brain stimulation.

There are several options available, including puzzle games, such as Sudoku or chess, to enhance your problem-solving skills, and educational apps, such as Duolingo, where you can take mini lessons to build language skills. Luminosity is also a popular brain training app, offering daily games that target cognitive and memory skills.

How to Improve Technology Skills
One of the most effective ways to improve your technology skills is to become familiar with your device's settings and features. The team at Falcons Landing is up-to-date on the latest technology and works patiently with residents on how to use social media, download apps and change their device's settings to make them more user-friendly.

Here are some technology tips to make your device easier to navigate.

• Check messages: Make it a daily habit to check your text messages, emails and call logs. This can help you become familiar with accessing or sending messages and ensures you don't miss any important messages or calls.
• Manage notifications: Every app or game you download will ask permission to send notifications, such as updates or reminders. By going to your device's settings, you can customize which apps you want to receive notifications from and which ones you don't. This can eliminate distracting pop-ups that may interfere with more important information, such as a new message from a family member.
• Use accessibility functions: Most devices offer accessibility functions to assist individuals with visual impairments. You can adjust your device's display settings to enlarge text and brighten the screen. This can make it easier to navigate your device and ensure you don't miss anything.

There are also resources available that can be helpful in furthering your technology skills. For example, AARP regularly hosts free online interactive classes and events to help seniors improve their tech knowledge. Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) is a nonprofit providing free computer classes and tech help to adults aged 60 and older. SeniorNet is also a nonprofit offering technology training and an online community for seniors to interact with each other and share advice.

Connected and Thriving at Falcons Landing
To learn more about our vibrant community and helpful staff, connect with our team today.  If you're considering moving to an Independent Living community, call us at 703-404-5151 or fill out our contact form to schedule a visit and see if Falcons Landing is a good fit for you.