Digital Health Week takes place every November and raises awareness about the role that digital tools play in our everyday lives. During the global pandemic, we have become even more reliant on these tools to virtually connect to health and social professionals and stay informed and educated about the changing landscape. Technology has also made it possible to stay connected to loved ones, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness. Physical activity such as yoga or Pilates can now be done virtually at home, and there are tools and devices such as wearables that can track your heart rate and progress.
Below are a few ways technology can enable you to live well.
Managing medication and chronic conditions
From text message reminders on your smartphone to ensure medications are taken on time to mobile apps that provide support to individuals managing chronic diseases like diabetes, mobile devices can be a valuable tool for maintaining your health.
Staying connected to loved ones
Technology enables us to remain emotionally close while physically separated. Older adults can use technology to stay connected to their loved ones through video chats, email, or phone calls.
Bringing the workout experience to your living room
In the absence of access to community-based exercise facilities and in-person classes, Pilates and yoga are two examples of mind-body exercises that can be done from the comfort of your own home using an online class to guide you.
Tracking your health and fitness goals
From wearable devices to mobile apps, smartphones, and tablets, there are more ways than ever before to stay connected and manage your health goals. Electronic devices and apps aim to help people live healthier lives by tracking their activity, heart rate, and eating and sleeping patterns. Apps for smartphones and tablets can also help monitor and track progress to motivate individuals to reach their health and fitness goals.
Technology can enable us to live healthier lives and help us stay connected to one another, even during uncertain times. While not every older adult can afford these technologies, there are organizations that are calling on people to donate their old devices so they can refurbish them and provide them to older adults. Loved ones and caregivers can help older adults navigate new devices and technologies, so they can use them effectively.
To learn more about the different ways technology can help you, read through our featured resources below.
