Isolation is one of the biggest challenges the older generation faces. Unfortunately, the technology gap continues to grow and can contribute to the loneliness our senior loved ones may feel. One of the greatest gifts you can give the Older Americans in your life this New Year is the gift of you! Apps like Facebook Messenger, Skype, and FaceTime make it easy to connect at all times. Plus, apps that help them order food, arrange a ride, manage their medications, and find their car are equally important. This is why we encourage you to take a look at these 3 apps you can share with (and teach) your loved ones.
1. Skype
Does your senior loved one live far away from relatives? Skype is one way your loved one can stay in touch from the comfort of his or her home! Skype is relatively user friendly and allows users to make long-distance phone calls, send messages, and video chat at any time. Whether it is a special occasion or you just want to check-in on your senior loved one, Skype is a free way to keep your family members connected at all times.
2. Pillboxie
Unfortunately, as we get older, the quantity and frequency of medications we need to take typically increases. As a result, managing medications can be a challenge for some Older Americans. Pillboxie is a cheap app that reminds your senior loved one to take their medications at the appropriate times. To help organize your loved one’s medications, the app allows you to customize each medication by color and place them in a digital pillbox.
3. Simple Social
As much as your senior loved one enjoys interacting with you, engaging with people of similar age and interests may further help combat any feelings of loneliness or isolation. Simple Social is a senior friendly app that provides easy access to different social media platforms with Older Americans in mind. Your senior loved one can join online groups, browse through their news feed, and generally keep up with friends and family members in a simple way.
Staying connected is one of the best ways to combat feelings of isolation. These are just a few of the apps that can help your senior loved one interact with friends and family members, and can help them better accomplish daily tasks. If you have ideas of other apps or have any questions about your senior loved one battling isolation, do not hesitate to contact our office.