Technology To Keep You Connected In Your Senior Years

3 August 2015

Jaime Allen

People who move into nursing homes away from their familiar neighborhoods can find it to be an isolating experience. You'll have to work to stay connected with friends and family. There are several technologies available, both equipment and software, that make staying connected easier. Here is how you can make use of these high-tech tools to keep in touch with the important people in your life.

Hardware (Equipment) You'll Find Useful

• Laptops - If you are familiar with typing on a keyboard, you'll connect with a laptop right away. The advantage of a laptop over a larger desktop computer is that you can fold up the laptop and lock it away when you're done with it. If you find it getting more difficult to type with arthritis or another disease in your hands, a keyboard with larger keys is available to plug into your laptop. If the screen becomes difficult to see, you can add a larger monitor to make that easier.
• Tablet - If you have flexibility issues with your hands, a tablet might be right for you. You don't need a keyboard to work a tablet. They use a touch screen that recognizes when you press anywhere on the screen with a finger. When you do need to type words or numbers, an onscreen keyboard appears with easy to press buttons. Tablets fit into a bag or purse and go with you anywhere.
• Touch Screen Laptop Combos - This gives you the benefit of a laptop with a keyboard and a touch screen. Some models allow you to detach the screen and use it independently of the keyboard. This might be a good choice if you can still use a keyboard but want to transition to a touch screen tablet someday.

Software You'll Find Useful

The real power of connecting happens with the software you learn to use. These, or similar, applications are available for any of the devices mentioned above.

• Email - This is a standard application with which people stay connected. You can send messages back and forth to others who have email. While useful, you may enjoy other tools that help you connect with more than one person at once.
• Social Networking - Websites such as Facebook have become popular because of the ability to post messages and photos online so many people can see them at once. Families find this a good way to stay in touch with each other in spite of busy schedules.
• Online Photo Albums - You and your family can create albums of photos online to share with each other. Services such as Shutterfly make it easy to upload photos into albums and give access to family members and friends. These services also allow people to make prints of their favorite photos or put them on gift items such as T-shirts and coffee cups.
• Video Conferencing - These products allow you to have video calls with friends and family. Don't miss birthdays or special events for family members who live miles away. Products such as Skype let you see and talk with people on your laptop or tablet.

Don't let your retirement living situation become an isolating event. With the right equipment and software, you'll have access to a number of ways to stay connected with friends and family. If you're looking for a nursing home or assisted living center, visit Diamond View Assisted Living.

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