Computers Make Life Better for the Elderly --

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Computers Make Life Better for the Elderly


"There are three signs of old age," the old joke goes. "First is loss of memory. And I forget the other two." That makes me smile -- but what's underlying this common stereotype about seniors is really not so funny. We all know that age-related mental decline takes simple forgetfulness to far more painful levels.

Computers, of all things, can help -- and not just because they store so much information. It's been demonstrated that brain-teasers and games can help keep mental faculties sharp, and in the past, studies have hinted that computer-based brain games can be especially helpful. (I say "hinted" since many were funded or conducted by software companies with a stake in the outcome.) One I found particularly interesting was recently conducted at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center of Tel Aviv University in Israel, where a clinical trial compared the cognitive improvements of 121 participants age 50 and older. They were asked to use a sophisticated brain-training program called MindFit or classic computer games (such as Tetris or Labyrinth) 30 minutes a day, three times a week for three months.

PICK A GAME... ANY GAME

Yes, this was one of those studies that received funding by a software company to test their products, so I took their conclusions on that front with a grain of salt. But what grabbed my attention was that in this case, regardless of which computer game or program they used, both study groups experienced improvements in areas such as short-term memory, memory recall and focused attention. The very act of focusing -- attentive participation involving higher order thinking, information integration and judgment -- on mental computer tasks appears to be what helps keep the mind sharp... and that is consistent with past research.

Add to that some of the other ways computers can expand horizons -- including building or maintaining social connections, providing access to information on virtually any topic, and even offering the potential to contribute a valued service to a business or nonprofit -- and it seems an excellent idea to encourage computer use by seniors in your life who aren't already connected.

PROVIDING TECH SUPPORT

A common problem is that computers can be frustratingly difficult for people who lack experience with them. Memory issues, lack of confidence and often sensory problems and decreasing motor skills present obstacles that can seem insurmountable -- but they need not be.

I spoke with Scott Rains, senior advisor to with-tv.com (a television station serving people with disabilities) and former director of programs and services at SeniorNet.org, a nonprofit organization that specializes in computer and Internet education for older adults and seniors. He offered advice on how to help computer-wary seniors get started and/or become more comfortable with the computer...

Focus on their interests. Rains suggests starting with a conversation to assess how a computer can (and actually will) be used, prior to buying equipment and software. For instance, says Rains, grandparents may be interested in staying in touch with family through e-mail or receiving regular digital photo updates, while people who enjoy travel may like the convenience of the many travel resources on the Internet. A benefit for housebound seniors may be that they can let their "fingers do their shopping."

Get the right equipment. Seniors with physical disabilities such as arthritis or poor eyesight, may believe these barriers stand in the way of using a computer. That's not usually the case, as specialized equipment is available to adapt computers for just about any disability or challenge. For example, arthritis sufferers can benefit from large-key keyboards, such as those made by BigKeys Keyboards (www.bigkeys.com/) and also specialized "mice" like those from the SmartSolutionPartners (www.sspdirect.com). People with poor vision do better with large-print keyboards, such as those made by ZoomText or screen magnification programs, like BigShot (both at www.aisquared.com).

Take a class. For most inexperienced computer users, success depends on learning how to use the hardware and software. Fortunately there are many resources. "You can find classes at continuing education centers, adult education centers, senior centers, community colleges, libraries and more," says Rains, noting that there are more than 200 SeniorNet Learning Centers across the country, as well. The best senior-oriented computer classes are small, use lots of visual aids, provide a handbook for use at home, work at a pace that allows for plenty of questions and repetition, and are focused on personal enrichment -- not speed, competition or job certification, he says. Ask questions about what classes emphasize before signing up.

Enlist a friendly expert. There are plenty of resources for people who need in-home help setting up computers or solving problems -- including national franchises such as Best Buy, which has partnered with Geek Squad. There is also geeksontime.com. But, says Rains, for computer beginners it can be best to enlist the help of a tech-savvy friend or family member. "You're going to get the best results through an interaction between friends," Rains says. "There's a level of comfort and trust, and a shared culture and language that helps them relate to one another."


Source(s):

Scott Rains, senior advisor to with-tv.com and former director of programs and services, SeniorNet.org.