Computer use enriches life at Adult Family Homes Olympia WA
Senior citizens are becoming one of the largest age groups of computer users. Many adult family homes Olympia WA now offer the use of a computer and internet access as part of their service. This is a trend that may seem surprising, but it actually makes a lot of sense that seniors would find computer technology useful and enjoyable. To explain this trend we must first address the myth that says that older people can’t learn new things. Research shows that the three predictors of good mental function in old age are regular physical activity, strong social support and the belief that one can handle whatever comes. So anyone who stays mentally and physically active has the advantage of being able to continue to learn and expand on what they already know. It has also been found that even those who have some decline in cognitive functioning can, with appropriate training, recover some of their lost skills.
New research now shows that people over the age of 65 make up the fastest growing group of internet users, and that seniors use email as much as any other age group. Adults older than 55 comprise more than 13% of total internet users.
On the other hand, the top reason older internet users give for using computers is to keep in touch with family and friends, with 93% using it for that purpose. The next most popular uses are making electronic purchases and accessing information in a fast-paced world. Other reasons for internet use include socialization, making a contribution, and feeling needed. Two other factors that have contributed to the increased use are the increasing ease of operating a computer and the decreasing cost of owning one. There are also more and more resources for seniors to learn to use computers. Community organizations, community colleges and libraries are all places that now offer computer classes and tutorials tailored to the needs of seniors.A
Many senior care homes offer residents access to computers and wireless connectivity to accommodate tech-savvy seniors. You can add this to your list of questions when you are interviewing prospective adult family homes Olympia WA.