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Technology Can Aid In Every Area Of A Senior’s Life

Society has become increasingly dependent on technological advancements. Seniors can feel out of place and frustrated when trying to learn how to use new technological tools. Some seniors may avoid learning how to use technology due to a lack of perceived benefit. Older individuals can become motivated in learning new technology by knowing a few major benefits.

Social connection

Technology enables anyone to remain socially connected with a long-distance relative or friend. Video chat services, social media networks, and email services provide seniors with an alternative to in-person visits. Social media keeps seniors up to date with family pictures and messages. Learning technology can also help seniors make new friends online.

Staying fit

Video games, computers, and other cool technological equipment can make physical activity more accessible to seniors. Some video game systems are motion-controlled and incorporate light movements and immersive gameplay. Wearable technology like fitness trackers can motivate seniors to maintain a daily step count goal.

Medication reminders

Modern technology enables people to adhere to a prescribed medication schedule. Smartphone apps can provide reminders to take a prescribed medication. Alerts can also indicate missed doses and the need for a medication refill. Wearable watches, for example, can show app reminders on the screen.

Personal fulfillment

A simple web search can bring up an enormous amount of information and entertainment that can improve a person’s quality of life. Technology can enable people to create a work-from-home career. Remote work can help seniors have financial peace of mind. People can also take online classes to get certifications or learn new recreational hobbies.

Travel easier

GPS technology helps seniors navigate new areas and find a way home, if needed. Seniors that learn how to use technology can also benefit from ridesharing apps. With these apps, people can schedule rides anywhere including hospital visits or visiting friends.

Tips for using technology

Seniors can learn about the basics of technology by asking a friend or relative for help learning a new device or software. A slow and steady learning pace and a patient teacher is crucial to retaining the different concepts. Large flat screen monitors, big fonts, touchscreens, and voice assistants can be especially helpful.

Improve quality of life

Occasional use of technology can keep seniors connected, engaged, and fulfilled. Most apps and services are free to use and provide numerous benefits. Seniors can find music of any genre or watch a hard-to-find movie online. Technology keeps seniors’ minds and bodies healthy in a variety of ways. For more information regarding an improved quality of life for seniors, speak with a healthcare provider.

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What Does COPD Do To The Body?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lung’s airways, making breathing difficult. COPD leads to two other conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis restricts the airways and causes excess mucus buildup. Emphysema is a disease that destroys the lung’s air sacs. People with COPD often have to deal with complications from either one of these diseases.

The importance of exercise

Activity is vital for people with COPD because a lack of physical activity can affect a person’s health and overall quality of life. COPD symptoms can even become worse. To start, COPD patients should enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program with a team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and exercise specialists. These professionals help people with COPD learn special breathing techniques and exercises, and develop treatment plans to make life with COPD easier. Pulmonary rehabilitation begins with an assessment from a therapist to determine different things about the patient, like blood oxygen levels. Programs are conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, or the patient’s home.

Stretching for people with COPD

People with COPD will benefit from lots of stretching. Stretching helps with breath control and body flexibility. Patients should start stretching for at least 10-15 minutes every day. Experts also believe that stretching before and after exercise is good for the body. Stretching is something that can be done anywhere at any time of day. Try some stretching exercises to prepare for more intense activities.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercises are great for people with COPD because these activities increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart muscle. Walking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Patients can do this for 15-20 minutes a day to get the blood flowing. Another great exercise is cycling. Patients can use a stationary bike or a regular bike. Swimming can also be beneficial. If an outdoor pool isn’t an option, patients can go to a local sports club and use those pool facilities. A good fitness regimen for those with COPD will incorporate aerobic exercises a few times a week.

Try some resistance training

Essentially, resistance training is weight lifting. However, people do not need to start with a heavy load. Lightweight dumbbells or exercise bands work just as well. Resistance training can be done multiple times throughout the week.

Taking the next step

Anyone interested in pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises, or more information about COPD should consult a doctor, physical therapist, or a respiratory therapist. These healthcare professionals are a wealth of knowledge and resources for leading a healthy life with COPD.