5 Pieces of Technology Every Senior Needs to Stay Connected
Whether you’re concerned about COVID, have health problems that often prevent you from meeting up with people, or simply live farther away from friends and family than you’d like, finding ways to stay connected is important. Thankfully, technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with the people we can’t always visit in person. Here are five pieces of technology every senior needs to stay connected.
1. Smartphone
Smartphones are probably the most ubiquitous and multipurpose pieces of technology every senior should have. A smartphone allows you to make regular telephone calls, video calls, and texts, along with exchanging photos with your loved ones and running a variety of social media apps. Plus, it’s crucial to have a mobile phone with you in case of an emergency. If you can only have one piece of technology, a smartphone should be it.
2. Computer
Like smartphones, computers are commonplace for a good reason. They allow you to do a variety of things, including staying connected. Whether you opt for a laptop or a desktop, you can use your computer to video chat with loved ones through platforms like Skype or Zoom. You’ll also be able to use social media or take part in virtual classes or tours. And since computer monitors and laptop screens are larger than the screen on your phone, you’ll be able to see more clearly and enjoy the experience more.
3. Tablet
A tablet performs many of the same functions as a computer, but at a size in between that of a computer and mobile phone. They’re also lighter and easier to carry than a laptop, so they’re a good compromise if you want to video chat or participate in virtual classes but don’t want to be stuck in front of a computer. It’s a good idea to purchase a stand for your tablet, too. That way, you’ll be able to keep your hands free during virtual classes or just take a break from having to hold it.
4. Virtual Reality (VR) Headset
You may associate Virtual Reality Headsets with your grandchildren playing video games, but they’re a wonderful piece of technology for seniors, too! If you and your family members or friends each have a VR Headset, you’ll be able to talk to one another, and it will appear as though you’re face-to-face in the same room! You can also take virtual tours with friends and feel as if you’re strolling together in Paris, taking a safari in Africa, or chatting beside the beach. If you’re looking for the next-best thing to seeing your loved ones in person, this is it.
Normandy Living is excited to partner with Rendever to offer our residents amazing VR opportunities
5. Smartwatch
A watch probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think about staying connected with friends and family, but smartwatches have come a long way in recent years. Many smartwatches now let you make and receive calls and texts right from your watch! So if you frequently find yourself in situations where you’d like to talk to a friend, but it’s inconvenient to hold a phone, such as while taking a walk, a smartwatch could be a good option. And because some brands have useful features like health monitoring and fall detection, smartwatches can also give you the confidence you need to be more active and get out into the community, knowing you can get help through your watch if you need it.
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