By Jennifer Ohrenstein, the digital skill tutor.
As we get older our bodies go through inevitable changes and some daily tasks can become harder to perform. For some people this includes the use of hand-held devices and a perhaps laptop and desktop technology too. Even older people who are well-versed in home technology may suddenly find their devices becoming more difficult to use as their physical needs change.
Visual or cognitive impairment can be considered the dominating factors that contribute to difficulties when using devices, but it is the deterioration in the use of aspects of one’s hands that can be a true obstacle – both to hold and to function. Osteoarthritis and Parkinson’s Disease can cause such impairments and lead to the loss of a strong grip, painful wrists (arthritis), compromised tactile actions and overall deterioration in dexterity thus make the use of handheld devices particularly difficult.
Fortunately, over the years mobile phone manufacturers have adapted their phone designs to accommodate the needs of the older generation and it is possible to change the settings or source equipment that meets peoples’ needs. For example, to avoid manual dialling, phones offer voice calling, hands-free loudspeakers, lightweight casing, haptic feedback (when you press a key, the phone vibrates to avoid making a mistake when dialling), keypads with well-spaced buttons, vibration alert (to know when a call or message is being received) and shock/water/dust resistant casing – in case of a device being dropped.
Welcome, too, the tablet. Tablets have become a favourite with older people. It is an ideal device as its larger surface area aids with hand difficulties as the touch engagement of a tablet versus a smaller device such as a mobile phone, is considerably easier. Additionally, tablets are mostly light in weight compared with a laptop and thus easier to hold and transport. Usefully these days, tablets now have the same general capabilities as the average smartphone.
Any endeavours that allow older people to stay independent longer in the comfort of their own environment should be embraced even if it means adapting devices to meet their specific needs, especially signs of deteriorating hands for which much assistance exists, including from an Occupational Therapist who specialises in helping people to adapt themselves to their changing needs and ensures that they can continue carrying out everyday tasks.
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- This article was written by the Jewish Care Karten Centre
- Featured in the Karten Autumn 2021 Newsletter
- This article is listed in the following subject areas: Centre News