Sometimes, it can feel (especially to older adults) like we’re living in the future. Ideas that used to seem like pure science fiction – like computers that could fit in the palm of your hand, or tiny robots that could perform surgery from inside your body, just to name a few examples – are now either becoming common or are well on their way to being mainstream. These days, technology is everywhere – which can be daunting for seniors, who may find this brave new world a challenging new frontier.
“We all know the old stereotype of the senior who’s unable to use a computer correctly, but these days, Grandma and Grandpa are some of the most eager adopters of technology because they see how it can improve their lives,” says Addie Ricci, Executive Director at Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk, located in Norwalk, CT. “How amazing is it that, with just a press of a few buttons, you can have a face-to-face conversation with someone on the other side of the world, for starters?”
Besides the “cool” factor of many of today’s technologies, there are also tangible benefits for health, wellness and aging. “A recent study at UCLA showed that doing something as simple as using an online search engine can trigger key centers in the brains of middle-aged and older adults,” says Addie. “These are areas that control complex reasoning and decision-making, meaning that the simple act of searching the internet can possibly help stimulate and improve the brain’s function.”
Not only that, but a study published in Intelligence found that seniors age 50 and older become more cognitively healthy when they use technology. Shocking news, indeed, for a generation who may have once felt that spending too much time on the computer or playing video games would “rot your brain.”
“The fact that technology can help sharpen seniors’ minds is groundbreaking and great news for seniors who are looking for ways to remain cognitively sharp and maintain neuroplasticity,” says Addie. “By using technology to keep our minds active, we can improve memory, boost mood, lower our mental age and, ultimately, extend lives.”
Here are 5 ways technology can help keep the brain stimulated and active … no matter how old or young we are.
1. It relieves stress.
This may be news to some seniors who find technology frustrating (especially when it doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to). But research has found that gameplay, in particular, can be very relaxing and even a stress-reliever. It can be hard for some seniors to “blow off steam,” so to speak, simply because they don’t have time, mobility or opportunity to access recreational opportunities they might otherwise enjoy. Technology can help provide easy access to recreation in these situations.
2. It stimulates the senses.
The use of technology can allow seniors to use their various senses more acutely. Playing a game can help promote hand-eye coordination, encourages problem solving and “flexes” the brain, much like a muscle gets worked. When a senior is learning a new technology or figuring out how to work through a problem, new neural connections are made and reinforced. These paths then allow more information to pass through that neural connection, which increases blood flow to the brain, which leads to better cognitive function.
3. It reduces depression.
One of the key benefits of technology, especially for older adults, is to connect with others. This can be done through texting, video chats or emails, but it can also be through interacting on a message board, online class or other forum. Connecting with others is a tried-and-true way to improve mood, reduce stress and lessen your risk of depression. But activities that allow individuals to learn – such as online classes or educational games and apps – also have the ability to reduce depression.
4. It staves off cognitive decline.
A study from The University of Iowa found that adults who played video games for just ten hours (over an unspecified amount of time) were able to stave off up to seven years of cognitive decline. So, playing video games can actually keep a person’s brain in shape. Action-based video games are found to be beneficial in helping an adult decipher fine detail, which is helpful in tasks like writing, proofreading, painting or other detail-oriented tasks. Strategy games have been proven to help improve complex decision-making.
5. It’s fun.
Everyone likes doing activities they enjoy. And interacting with technology doesn’t have to be work. In fact, using apps on a smartphone or playing video games can be a fun and social experience. (Especially if said game connects the senior to other players – think of apps like Words with Friends, which allow you to compete against any friend who has the same app installed on their phone). Being bored leads to depression, confusion and lower overall health. However, doing things we enjoy helps keep us interested, active and sharp – all good things for the aging mind.
“This research shows us that you can definitely teach an old dog new tricks, and that the old dog in question can gain a real sense of self-worth and a higher quality of life because of it,” says Addie. “At Bridges by EPOCH at Norwalk, we understand the importance that technology plays in helping keep minds sharp and our residents happy and healthy. We use research-based principles and adopt proven, dementia-friendly technologies such as iN2L to help us engage and stimulate our residents in ways that help them live joyful, happy and fulfilled lives, no matter what stage of memory loss they may be experiencing.”
Expert, Life-Enriching Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community promotes a wellness-focused lifestyle that emphasizes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized, ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents.
Inspiring Programs for All Stages
Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk’s services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide personalized attention and programming for residents in every stage of memory loss.
Purposeful Community Design
Within a beautiful residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides everything residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia need to enjoy comfort, familiarity and security. Soft colors, directional cues, aromatherapy and interactive life stations create a soothing and secure environment where residents feel at home.
Contact us today to learn more.