It’s true that many senior citizens do not use the internet these days or if they do, they have difficulty navigating through websites. Sometimes, they would ask their grandkids to help them properly use the computer or their smartphones.
But there’s a positive development as discovered by researchers. The latest news is that a growing number of seniors are utilizing technology and recognizing them as a vital tool that can help enrich their lives as they move through their twilight years.
A 2011 report also showed that the number of internet users aged 50 years old and above has almost doubled to 42 percent. Statistics in the U.S. showed that nearly 16 million people aged 55 and older are
using Facebook.
A three-month study done by Dr. T.J. McCallum from Case Western Reserve University found that older people who use modern technology have a high regard for themselves and have better social interaction
than those who don’t. The research covered seniors enrolled in a computer class offered by certain non-profit organizations. Among the students, many are satisfied with the new knowledge they’ve gained and claimed to be more independent.
Instructors of these computer classes for seniors happily reported that many of their students are open to learning about new technology including email and Skype. Their desire to learn stems from the urge to connect with people they care about.
Social media has also been found to benefit the seniors. These are through socialization, reducing depression, providing opportunities for continued education, improving mental health and having a sense of purpose through the new skills gained in their computer classes.
In the U.S., Senior Surf and Connected Living are just two of the non-profit organizations committed to helping older people gain new skills in using modern technology.
Photo via seniorjournal.com
