Advances in technology, software and services are changing the way we age. From wearables to telehealth services, these innovations are enabling seniors to live longer, healthier and more connected lives.
GetSetUp is an organization that seeks to bridge the digital divide for seniors by creating new tools and spaces for middle-aged and older people to learn and connect. I recently spoke with Laurence Kosik, president and co-founder of GetSetup, about his vision of technology as a cornerstone of healthy aging.
Gary Drenick. What are the latest developments in aging technology, software, and services and how will they affect older people?
Lawrence Kosik. Recent technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, robotic assistance, personalized medicine, smart home appliances and better internet access will have a positive impact on the elderly.
For example, telehealth services are gaining popularity as a treatment of choice for non-life-threatening illnesses. According to a recent study by Prosper Insights and Analytics, Gen-Z (9.3%) are most likely to use telehealth services, while Millennials (9%) and Gen-X (7%) are lagging behind, while Boomers (4.4%) are showing increased interest. Digital communication with health professionals can improve health services, especially considering the lack of health services in many areas.
Smartwatches and other digital health and fitness tools can also help better predict and diagnose problems. With the ability of these devices to track health and well-being over time, people can provide healthcare providers with a better understanding of their lifestyle.
In some cases, this can help resolve the problem before it gets too serious. It also allows people to better understand and track when they need help from a healthcare professional.
Drenick: How are smart home technologies, apps and services changing an aging population?
Kosik: We're looking at smart home technologies that enable safer, more independent aging . Gen-X (57.2%) use their smart home assistant, according to a recent study by Prosper Insights & Analytics, but nearly 50% of Baby Boomers do too, relying mostly on Amazon Echo:
Devices such as smart thermostats, doorbells and security cameras make it easier for seniors to monitor their home and manage their daily activities.
Apps or voice commands can turn lights on and off, lock doors, and control the temperature. This is especially helpful for seniors with mobility or physical limitations, and family members and caregivers who are concerned about the safety of their loved ones can take a look at the device.
Drenik: How are seniors using technology tools, apps and services to strengthen their social connections and combat loneliness?
According to the Kosick Michigan Healthy Aging Survey 2023, one in 50 to 80 years (34%) reported feeling isolated from others in the past year. This is especially concerning because the National Institute on Aging found that the effects of loneliness, isolation and poor social networks are comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Fortunately, we see technology being a huge asset in fighting this epidemic in the elderly.
The biggest benefit is that new technology helps bridge the communication gap. Social media apps are one of the most popular smartphone apps. According to a recent study by Prosper Insights & Analytics, half of Boomers (49.9%) and more Generation Xers (56.4%) use social media apps, and the trend is not slowing down. Get off early
Additionally, video conferencing and online classes have opened up a new world for seniors to connect with friends and family, learn new skills, and pursue new interests.
One example is one of our users, Omi, who is in his 60s and recently discovered that GetSetUp's offerings on art, health and more remain one of the most powerful ways to stay connected without leaving the house.
Drenick: What are the most pressing challenges facing older people in the adoption and use of technology tools, software and services ?
Kosic: While technology has the potential to improve the lives of older adults, some may be reluctant to use it for fear of failure. Others do not have access to technology or resources to learn about technology related to aging.
The good news is that many health programs, governments, and community organizations are doing their best to provide the additional education and support they need to understand and use assistive technology as they age. But we need to make sure these resources, such as broadband and education, are equal so that all demographic groups have equal opportunities.
Drenick: How do technology tools, software and services affect older people's access to information and learning?
Kosik said a recent Pew report found that 73 percent of adults aged 65 and over use the Internet, and that number is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. Additionally, online learning platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and GetSetUp have become popular with seniors, allowing them to learn new skills and knowledge at their own pace.
Another important example is the development of virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies that enable the elderly to learn and interact with the outside world. Virtual reality, for example, can be used to simulate experiences that parents find difficult or impossible to do in real life, such as traveling to a new place or playing sports.
Drenick: What role will technology play in the future of aging?
Kosik: That's a word . We need to focus on making things simple and accessible to more people. First, it means less interaction between the user and the technology. The key is to create a more intuitive user interface. Highlighting key features and functionality only as necessary and keeping options and complexity to a minimum is critical to product design and usability.
Due to healthcare shortages and aging, hassle-free products and resources help ease the burden and allow seniors to maintain independence and longevity on their own terms.
In general, technology can greatly improve a parent's life. It is critical that we continue to invest in and develop educational technologies and resources that help seniors age with dignity, health and happiness.
Drenick: Thanks Lawrence for sharing how technology is becoming essential to healthy aging. Check out GetSetUp resources to learn more about new technologies and topics.