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Mrs. Ranita Ray of Delhi, in her early 70s and retired, embraced the advent of new technologies like ducks taking to the water. She onboarded herself on social media channels, using the basic features of WhatsApp messenger as well as using a smartphone to be in touch with loved ones, etc. Always eager to move with the times, she did all this with the help of her sons and her determination not to get left behind in the digital race. At the same time, she was marching into the 21st century, some of her peers and friends were not embracing the digital dividends. There are many like her friends who are either unsure or uncomfortable with the rapid advances in tech or who have not had anyone to guide them. In this blog, we examine the benefits which are many, of learning technology (at least smart phones, electronic devices, and social media) for our senior citizens.
The benefits are:
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Enhanced brain activity. To keep the grey cells active and healthy, it is important to learn new things and keep the brain active. Mastering technologies is a great way to achieve the same. It’s been found in studies that those using technology and the internet have higher neural activity as compared to those who do not.
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Tele health services. With video call service with various health providers, getting medical help, advice and prescriptions is now the easiest thing possible. Covid-19 pandemic or any other public health emergency, need to stay home and safe doesn’t mean being deprived of medical assistance. Whether you are in Jalandhar or Jamshedpur, medical advice with top specialists in their domains are now within easy reach.
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Reduction in loneliness. Adoption of technology in the form of Whatsapp, social media, or video calls means the loneliness felt by a section of the elders who are by themselves or in senior care homes or have limited social interaction is reduced. Keeping in touch with loved ones or social circles is now available at your fingertips. Of course, this is no compensation for face to face meetings nor will it ever be. But it does mitigate the longing & loneliness made wider by miles of separation.
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Avail services from the comfort of homes. With learning technology, one can download various service apps and start shopping from the convenience & comfort of your home. Whether it is for medicines, groceries, errands, flight tickets, restaurant reservations, caregiver requirements, and much more.
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Pay various bills online without leaving your home. Apps have made life easy. No need for cheque books or standing in payment counters. Just use the app or net banking or sign up with e-wallets to simplify life.
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Learn new skills and hobbies. Many seniors are turning to the internet to pick up new hobbies & skills such as cooking or gardening. Tips, videos, and online communities are helping people to keep ticking and being young in heart, mind, and body. Learning a new language or crochet or tie & dye has never been easy.
Isn't it time you gave tech a chance to change your life?
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