Keep Senior Loved Ones Connected

Have you heard of the “digital divide”? It’s a gap many older adults are crossing these days, as seven months of social distancing have lured them into video chatting, email and social media. Who is providing tech support for these new adopters of communications technology? In many cases, family members are stepping up. Here is an infographic blueprint to help them succeed.

When families live at a distance from senior loved ones, Right at Home professional in-home care can be another good resource for helping everyone keep in touch. With permission, the caregiver and agency can share information with family about how their loved one is doing, providing reassurance and letting them know if there’s something that needs to be attended to.

KEEP SENIOR LOVED ONES CONNECTED

Today with social distancing, many family caregivers have a new role: tech support for older relatives who are now connecting online. Here's a checklist families can use.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGY

Help your loved one select the right devices for their needs and abilities. Senior-friendly hardware and software can cut down on frustration.

SUGGEST TAKING CLASSES

Once they're up and running, help your loved one sign up for computer classes. Some are especially designed for older users.

FIND THINGS TO DO ONLINE

Video chatting, telehealth, social media and a world of online content can be a real antidote to isolation.

PROVIDE TECH SUPPORT

Assign a family member to be the tech support lead for your loved one. This can be a great way for grandparents and older grandchildren to bond.

INSTALL REMOTE ACCESS

With your loved one's permission, install an application that allows you to control their computer from afar to help with problems.

CHECK SECURITY SOFTWARE

Be sure antivirus software, spam filter and other protections are installed. Keep them up to date and familiarize your loved one with them.

TALK ABOUT SAFETY

Warn your loved one about scams, sharing personal information and clicking on links from people they don't know.

BE AVAILABLE TO HELP

Assure your loved one they can contact you any time with questions. "Ask before you click" is a good motto.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL

If no one in the family has the skills or patience to be the tech support person, hire a service- available hourly, or for an annual subscription.