AI50 Connect

Hanh Brown - Technology and Older Adults: 10 Things You Need to Know

February 11, 2023 Hanh Brown Season 4 Episode 169
AI50 Connect
Hanh Brown - Technology and Older Adults: 10 Things You Need to Know
Show Notes Transcript

If you're an older adult who wants to keep up with the latest technological advances, you need to know about Technology and Older Adults. In this podcast episode, we'll discuss 10 things you need to know about this topic.

From how to use technology to stay connected to family and friends, to staying safe online, to stay healthy and mobile, this podcast episode will give you everything you need to know about technology and older adults. So be sure to listen, and then start practicing the tips we discuss so you can stay ahead of the curve!

In this podcast episode, we’re going to take a look at the benefits of technology for seniors and discuss some of the things you need to know about it.

There are lots of great benefits to be had by keeping seniors as well-rounded as possible. By learning about technology, they can stay connected with friends and family, stay independent, and stay safe. In this podcast episode, we'll discuss 10 things you need to know about technology and older adults so that you can make the most of this growing trend!

Technology has revolutionized the way we live, work, and play. It seems like there's an app for everything these days. But what about older adults?

How can we better understand the needs of older adults when it comes to technology? And what motivates them to adopt new technologies?

First and foremost, it's important to remember that not all older adults are the same. Literacy and physical ability can influence an older adult's decision to adopt the technology. Some older adults are early adopters of new technology, while others are more hesitant.

In this episode, I delved into understanding the technological needs of older adults, the factors that influence their decisions to adopt technology, and the challenges they may face when adapting to new technologies.

Additionally, it discusses the role of literacy in older adult's ability to use technology effectively and strategies that can be used to improve digital literacy among older adults. The episode also covers the importance of making technology more accessible and affordable for older adults, as well as ensuring their safety when using technology.

Finally, it explores the role of policymakers in increasing the adoption of technology by older adults. This topic aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that technology presents for older adults, and how to best support them in using technology to improve their quality of life.

Topics I will discuss in this episode include:

 ✅ How can we better understand the technological needs of older adults?
 ✅ What factors influence older adults' decisions to adopt technology?
 ✅ What challenges do older adults face when adapting to new technologies?
 ✅ How does literacy impact older adults' ability to use technology effectively?
 ✅ What strategies can be used to improve digital literacy among older adults?
 ✅ How can we make technology more accessible for older adults?
 ✅ How can we make technology more affordable for older adults?
 ✅ How can we ensure that seniors are safe when using technology?
 ✅ How can policymakers increase the adoption of technology by older adults?

You'll come away from the episode with a better understanding of how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital devices and services.

Whether you're an older adult yourself or simply want to be more prepared to help a loved one, this episode is a must-listen.

👉 See our Website: https://podcast.boomerliving.tv/
🎙 Boomer Living Podcast: https://hanhdbrown.com/
👉 LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2TFIbbd

00:00:00
Hi, I'm Hanh Brown, the host of the Boomer Living Broadcast. Welcome. So today's topic is "Technology and Older Adults Ten Things You Need to Know." As our population ages, it's important to consider the role of technology in the lives of older adults. We'll explore a variety of topics related to technology and older adults, including how to better understand their needs, what factors influence their decision to adapt new technologies, and what challenges they face when doing so.

00:00:32
We will also discuss ways to improve digital literacy among seniors and make technology more accessible and affordable for this population. Finally, we will explore how to ensure that seniors are safe when using technology and what policies can be put in place to encourage adoption of new technologies by older adults. Well, here are 10 topics. First, how can we better understand the needs of older adults with technology? Second, what factors influence older adults' decision to adapt technology? Third, what challenges do older adults face when adapting to new technologies? Fourth, what does literacy impact or how does literacy impact older adults'

00:01:20
ability to use technology effectively? Fifth, what strategies can be used to improve digital literacy among older adults? Six, how can we make technology more accessible for older adults? Seven, how can we make technology more affordable for older adults? Eight, how can we ensure that seniors are safe when using technology? Nine, how can policymakers increase the adoption of technology by older adults? And ten, how sales and marketing automation can benefit tech companies serving seniors with affordability, accessibility, and safety for older adults? Well, let's dive into Topic 1. How can we better understand the needs of older adults with technology?

00:02:13
Well, as we live longer and healthier lives, more and more of us are finding ourselves in a position of caring for age and parents. Well, this can be a challenging role, as our parents may sometimes use this change and be hesitant to new technology. However, by taking the time to better understand their needs, we can help them stay connected to the people and things that they care about. Well, one way to do this is to find out how they like to stay connected with loved ones. Do they prefer phone calls, text messages, or video chat? Once you know their preference, you can help them set up the necessary equipment and show them how to use it.

00:02:51
You can also help them stay connected to their community by finding ways for them to stay active and engage. For example, many senior centers now offer computer classes, specifically for older adults. And by taking the time to understand the needs of our age and parents, we can help them stay connected and involve in the world around them. We and our loved ones are never too old to learn something new or to keep up with the kinds and changes in the technological world. All we need is some patience, guidance, and some understanding from one another. Well, here are a few tips for helping older adults use technology. Be patient and understanding.

00:03:31
Remember that learning how to use new technologies to time for anyone. Be patient with your loved one while they learn and don't get frustrated if they make mistakes. Instead, encourage and compliment them when they do something right. Second, take the time to explain things clearly and explain in detail when teaching someone how to use new technology. One possible, use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms. Start with the basics. Don't try to teach a loved one everything there is to know about a new piece of technology all at once. Instead, begin with the fundamentals and gradually introduce a more advanced concept

00:04:14
as they become more familiar with the fundamentals. When teaching someone how to use new technology, use step-by-step instructions whenever possible. This will make it easy for them to follow along and ensure that they don't miss any important steps in the process. Remember, be available for help when needed. Even after you've taught someone how to use technology, be available to help them. This way, if they have any questions or encounter any difficulties, you'll be able to help them. Technology is constantly changing, which can make it difficult for anyone

00:04:49
regardless of age to keep up with the latest trends and devices. But it's important to remember that older adults are just as capable of learning how to use new technologies as younger people. All we need is some patience, guidance, and understanding from one another. So by following these tips, you can help your older loved ones stay up to date with the latest technologies without feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. Topic 2. What factors influence older adults' decision to adapt technology? Well, a variety of factors influence older adults' decision to use technology. Grandchildren, for example, can be a powerful motivator. As our society increasingly values and depends on technology,

00:05:31
those who are not comfortable using it can feel locked out and disconnected. There are many factors that can influence and older adult decisions to adapt technology. But one of the most common is the desire to stay connected with loved ones. For many people, becoming more comfortable with technology is a way to stay in touch with family members who live far away or are frequently busy with work or other commitments. In today's world, grandparents often use video chat services like Skype or FaceTime to keep in touch with their grandkids. And many find that learning to use these new tools is well worth the effort. Many older adults decide to adapt new technologies in order to stay active and engage in their community. With the ambiguity of social media, there are now more opportunities than ever to

00:06:22
connect with people who share your interests and hobbies. For example, seniors who enjoy knitting may join an online forum where they can share pictures of their work, get feedback from other knitters and even find new patterns to try. No matter what factors influence an individual's decision to adapt technology, it's clear that doing so can result in a more connected and fulfilling life. Well, there are a number of factors that influence older adult decision to adapt technology. Let's explore some of those factors and try to understand why older adults might choose to embrace digital tools later in life. One of the most important factors is social isolation. As we get older, our social networks tend to shrink. We move away from our childhood homes, our friends move away or pass away and we can find ourselves feeling lonely and isolated. Technology can help us stay connected to our loved ones, even if they live far away.

00:07:23
Video chat apps like Skype FaceTime allow us to see and talk to our loved ones in real time, no matter where they are in the world. A social media platform like Facebook and Twitter help us stay up to date and what's going on with our friends and family's lives. For many older adults, these technologies are a lifeline to the outside world. Another important factor is health concerns. As we age, we become more susceptible to chronic illnesses like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and cancer. We also become more likely to experience cognitive decline and memory problems. These health concerns can make it difficult to get out, which can lead to a feeling of loneliness and isolation. But technology can help us stay connected to our doctors and loved ones when we're unable to leave the house. For example, many hospitals now offer video visitation for patients who are unable to have visitors in person. And there are a number of ads and websites that offer

00:08:22
virtual support groups for those dealing with chronic illnesses or mental health conditions. Another factor, improving cognitive skills. Besides helping older adults stay active and engage, technology can also be used to improve cognitive skills. There are many games and puzzles available online to help to improve memory, attention span, problem solving skills and so forth. And if you're looking for ways to challenge yourself even further, there are also websites that offer courses and everything from art history to computer programming. Finally, many older adults find themselves facing financial insecurity in retirement. This can make it difficult to travel to see family or friends or even to participate in activities near their home. But technology can help bridge the gap by providing low cost or even free options for staying connected. Well, for example, there are a number of free video chat apps available that allow users

00:09:22
to connect with their loved ones without incurring long distance fees. So clearly, there are a number of factors that influence older adult decisions to adapt technology, which include social isolation, health concerns and financial insecurity. For many seniors, technology provides a lifeline to the outside world, allowing them to stay connected with their loved ones, no matter where they are in the world. So if you know of a senior who is struggling with loneliness or isolation, encourage them to give some of these technologies a try, it could make all the difference in their life. Third (Topic 3), what challenges do older adults face when adapting to new technologies? Well, since the onset of the COVID pandemic, Americans have been forced to adapt to a new way of life that includes wearing masks and public, staying six feet apart from others and working from home whenever possible. For many seniors, these changes have been difficult to adjust to,

00:10:20
besides having to cope with the stress of the pandemic itself, they also had to learn how to use new technologies such as Zoom, Skype, FaceTime in order to stay connected with family and friends. While some seniors have embraced these changes and found them relatively easy to adapt to, others have struggled. Many seniors are not usually using computers or other digital devices, and they may not have the same level of technological literacy needed. So this can make it difficult for them to figure out how to use applications and stay connected with loved ones. When learning something new, some seniors experience a steeper learning curve than others. They may also be less likely to ask for help when struggling with something new, which can make it very difficult for family and friends to provide support. So despite these challenges, many older adults are finding ways to adapt and even thrive in

00:11:16
the current environment. With patience and a lot of practice, seniors can learn how to use new technologies and stay connected with loved ones, even during the pandemic. Well, let's talk about some common challenges older adults face when trying to adapt to new technologies, difficulty learning new skills. As we get older, it can become more difficult for some to learn new skills or information. This can be a big challenge when trying to adapt to new technologies, which often require us to learn how to use entirely new systems and interfaces, lack of confidence and motivation. It's easy to feel like you're the only one struggling with new technology, but that simply is not the case. Many seniors lack confidence in their ability to use new technology, which can lead to feelings of discouragement and real motivation. Remember that everyone was a beginner once and even the most tax savvy among us had to start

00:12:16
somewhere. So give yourself a break and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Feeling overwhelmed and intimidated. Older adults can feel overwhelmed and intimidated when it comes to technology. It's important to take some time to figure out what you need from a piece of technology before diving in. Once you know your needs and you can focus on learning about specific technologies that might be a good fit for you, limited time and patience. Many seniors face the challenge of finding enough time to learn new technologies. It can be hard to keep up with the latest trends in a fast-paced world, but it's important to remember that there is no shame in learning at your own pace. Learning new technology should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. Accessibility issues. Another common challenge faced by older adults is accessibility issues. As we age, we may begin to experience difficulties with our vision, hearing,

00:13:18
dexterity and other physical abilities. This can make using new technologies difficult as many devices and interfaces are not designed with accessibility in mind. Well, if you're having trouble using a particular piece of technology due to lack of accessibility, there are usually ways around the problem. For example, many devices offer text-to-speech options or alternative input methods that can make them much easier to use. Lack of support. Many older adults face lack of support from families and friends when trying to learn how to use new technologies. Younger people who are more comfortable with technology can take its pervasiveness for granted, leaving older adults feeling frustrated and alone in their efforts to keep up with the latest trends. Negative attitudes towards change. Many people find it difficult to adapt new technologies because of their negative attitude towards change. People can

00:14:15
become set in their ways in resistance to anything that might disrupt their routines as they get older. However, it's critical to emphasize the importance of focusing on the potential benefits of new technologies rather than the potential risk associated with change. Well, as a saying goat, the only way to grow is to change. Fourth (Topic 4), how literacy affects older adults use of technology. In a world that is increasingly driven by technology, literacy is more important than ever. Seniors' literacy can be the difference between being able to stay connected with loved ones and feeling isolated. It can mean the difference between being able to use new technologies and feeling overwhelmed. In a world where so much communication happens online, literacy is crucial for staying connected. For older adults, literacy can also be a source of empowerment. In a world where change is happening rapidly, literacy can help older adults keep up with the changes and feel like they're

00:15:20
still contributing members of society. With the right support, older adults can learn to use new technologies and participate in a digital world. Literacy can help older adults stay connected, engaged, and empowered. So, according to the study by the National Institute of Literacy, only 12% of adults over the age of 65 have proficient health literacy skills. This means that 88% of older adults are at the risk of not being able to use technology effectively. So, you might wonder how many seniors only read at the lowest proficiency level? Well, the program for the International Assessment of Adult Competency, PIAAC, is a larger international study. The PIAAC defines five levels of literacy proficiency, with level one as the lowest and level five as the highest. Well, nationally, over one in five adults have a literacy proficiency at or below level one, which means seniors in this range

00:16:29
have difficulty using or understanding print material. So, let's look at ways literacy influences older adults' ability to use technology effectively. Literacy is necessary for understanding how to use technology. If someone does not know how to read, they will not be able to understand the instructions for using a piece of technology. Literacy is necessary for troubleshooting problems of technology. If someone cannot read, they will not be able to understand the error messages or follow steps for troubleshooting problems. Literacy is necessary for finding information online. If someone cannot read, they will not be able to find the information they need when using search engines like Google or Bing. Literacy is necessary for staying up-to-date with changes in technology. If someone cannot read, they will not be able to understand new features or updates that come with new versions of software or hardware. Literacy is a critical

00:17:32
skill for affected use of technology among older adults. As I mentioned before, only 12% of adults over the age of 65 have proficiency literacy skills, which puts the other bigger part of the demographic. It risks for not being able to use technology effectively. Difficulty reading text and screen. One of the most common problems older adults have with technology is reading and screen. This can be due to poor vision and declining cognitive abilities. It's also often because the text and screen is small and difficult to read, difficulty understanding technical language. Well, this is another problem that seniors have with technologies understanding technical language. Jargon and acronyms can be confusing for anyone, but they can be especially confusing for older adults who are not as familiar with technology. So, if an older adult doesn't understand technical language instructions or error messages, they may have trouble using technology effectively.

00:18:38
Difficulty remembering how to use specific features. Well, as we get older, we have more difficulty in remembering things. This includes how to use specific features and websites or applications. If a senior can't remember how to use specific feature, they're likely to have difficulty using technology effectively, lack of experience with specific types of technology. Older adults often lack experience with specific types of technology, such as touch screens or voice activated assistance. This lack of experience can make it difficult for them to use technology effectively, the fear of making mistakes. Well, many older adults fear making mistakes when using technology. This fear can lead them to avoid using certain features of technology altogether. Limited time available for learning new things. Well, as we get older, we have less time to learn new things, including how to use technologies effectively. This limited time

00:19:39
can make it difficult for seniors to learn new technologies effectively. Social isolation. Isolation among older adults make it harder for them to use technology effectively. Seniors who are socially isolated may not have anyone to help them learn technology or may be embarrassed to ask. So if a senior is socially isolated, they may struggle to use social media and other technologies. Literacy affects older adults' ability to use technology in many ways, and improving literacy rates can help them stay connected and engage in a digital world. Topic 5. What strategies can improve digital literacy in older adults? Well, we're living in a digital age where access to technology is more important than ever before. Unfortunately, not everyone has the same level of digital literacy. This is especially true for older adults who may have never had to use a computer or smartphone before, and that's why

00:20:40
it's so important to find ways to improve digital literacy among older adults. With the right strategies in place, we can help them feel more comfortable using technology and bridge the digital divide. Well, there are second strategies that can be used to improve digital literacy among older adults. Provide one and one training sessions. One of the best ways to improve digital literacy among older adults is to provide them with one and one training sessions. This way, they can get the individualized attention they need to learn how to use technology at their own pace. Use step-by-step instructions. When it comes to using technology, sometimes all people need as little guidance. By providing step-by-step instructions, we can make it easier for older adults to understand how to use different types of technology. Encourage, practice, and repetition. Practice makes perfect, and the more someone uses a piece of technology, the better they will

00:21:40
become using it. And that's why it's important to encourage practice and repetition when trying to improve digital literacy among older adults. Make use of online resources. There are tons of great online resources that can be used to improve digital literacy among older adults, from online tutorials to social media groups. There is no shortage of helpful information out there. Promote collaboration. Collaboration is key when trying to improve digital literacy among older adults. By working together, we can share knowledge and help each other become more comfortable with using technology. Be patient and understanding. It's important to remember that everyone learns at their own pace. When trying to improve digital literacy among older adults, it's important to be patient and understanding everyone will get there eventually. Remember, have fun. Learning should be fun. And if we make learning about technology enjoyable,

00:22:41
then people will be more likely to stick with it and continue growing their skill sets. Improving digital literacy among older adults is important for many reasons. With the right strategies in place, we can help them feel more comfortable using technology and bridge the digital divide. By providing one-on-one training sessions, using step-by-step instructions, encouraging practice and repetition, making use of online resources, promoting collaboration, being patient and understanding, and having fun, we can make a world of difference in improving digital literacy among older adults. Topics 6. How can we make technology more accessible for older adults? Well, a recent study showed that one in four adults over the age of 65 don't use the internet. This means they are missing out on many of the benefits that come with being connected, including staying up-to-date on current events, including with family, communicating with family

00:23:42
and friends, and accessing important health information. There are a number of reasons why older adults may not be using technology, including a lack of interest, difficulty understanding how to use it, or feeling like it's not relevant to their lives. However, there are ways that we can make technology more accessible to this population. One way to make technology more accessible for older adults is by simplifying the user interface. Many older adults find it difficult to navigate complicated menus and icons. By reducing the number of steps required to complete a task, we can make it easier for older adults to use technology. Another way to make technology more accessible for older adults is by providing clear and concise instructions. When setting up new devices and applications, it's important to use language that seniors will understand. We should also be mindful and avoid using jargon or technical terms whenever possible. We can also make

00:24:43
technology more accessible for seniors by offering hands-on support. Use large bonds in high-contrast colors. This will help older adults see the text more clearly, increase the size of icons and buttons, include instructions and tutorial. Design for one-handed use. Many older adults have difficulty using both hands, so designing for one-handed use will make it much easier for them to use technology. Remember, offer customer support. Having someone available to answer questions and provide assistance will go a long way in making technology more accessible for seniors. Keep it simple. When it comes to technology, less is often more. Older adults don't need bells and whistles. They just want something that is easy to use and does what it's supposed to. Consider how hearing and vision may be impacted. Make sure that text can be enlarged and the audio is available for those who may have difficulty hearing. Think about mobility issues. If someone has difficulty moving their

00:25:49
hands or fingers, consider how they might be able to use voice commands or other alternative input methods. Use all text to provide descriptions of images for those who are blind or have low vision. Make sure all devices are compatible with assistive technologies such as screen readers or voice recognition software. Ensure that websites are designed using responsive design so that they can be easily used and all devices. Use reliable testing methods. Be sure to test your designs with actual users to ensure that they meet the needs of your target audience. By following these guidelines, you can make technology more accessible for everyone regardless of age or ability level. The economy has been challenging for everyone and that includes those of us in the senior care industry. We have seen a decrease in the number of people who can afford to pay for senior care and an increase in the number of seniors who need the services. Technology has changed the way

00:26:52
we do business and we are constantly trying to keep up with the latest trends. And as you know, this is a challenge. So we're also trying to reach more seniors with our message which can be difficult to get their attention. Topic 7. How can we make technology more affordable for older adults? Many seniors are priced out of the market for new gadgets and devices. The upfront cost of new technology is very expensive and the monthly fees can also add up. For seniors on a fixed income, these additional costs can be very, very unaffordable. Many seniors struggle to keep up with the latest technologies. So despite their best efforts, they often fall behind. So to afford technology, older adults can do some of the following. One, older adults can use public libraries which offer free or low-cost access to computers, the internet and other digital resources. Two, subscribe to senior-friendly tech services that offer discounts and

00:27:54
devices, data plans and other services. Shop around for affordable cell phone plans that meet the needs of older adults. Consider signing up for a family plan so that multiple people can share one account and receive discounts on monthly service fees. Invest in a durable laptop or tablet that will last for several years instead of opting for the latest and greatest model every year. Choose software and app bundles so that it offers multiple features at a discounted price. Seek out free or low-cost online courses on how to use specific technologies or applications. Check with the local community organizations or nonprofits for resources and programs that help make technology affordable for older adults. Follow social media accounts and websites that offer tips on how to make the most of technology without spending a lot of money. Advocate for policies and regulations at the state and federal level that support affordable access or technology for

00:28:56
all Americans regardless of age or income level. So let's go further. What can be done to make technology more affordable for seniors? Well here are some more ideas. Offer discounts and devices in services for seniors. Make it easier for seniors to sell their old devices. Allow seniors to trade in their old devices for store credit. Encourage seniors to donate their old devices for charity. Give seniors free or discounted access to tech support and services. Provide seniors with free or discounted software and apps. Offer discounts and device insurance for seniors. Give seniors free or discounted access and online resources and courses. Encourage manufacturers to design age-friendly products for seniors. Advocate for government policies that support senior access to technology. For many older adults, technology is a financial burden. As new devices and monthly fees on the rise, it's harder for seniors and a fixed income to keep up

00:29:55
with these tech trends. So we can make technology more affordable for seniors by offering discounts and devices and services and encouraging manufacturers to design age-friendly products. We can ensure that everyone has access to technology regardless of age or finances. Topic 8. How can we ensure that seniors are safe when using technology? As our loved ones age, we want to ensure that they are safe and healthy. This includes their physical safety, emotional and mental well-being. With seniors living longer and more independently than ever, it's important to ensure that they're safe when using technology. Here's a few simple ways to ensure that seniors are safe. Keep devices updated with the latest security patches and software updates. This will help to protect against any known vulnerabilities and malware. New strong passwords and two-factor authentication were possible. This will help to protect accounts

00:30:55
from being hacked. Be aware of fishing scams and other fraud attempts. Teach seniors how to spot these attempts and encourage them to report any suspicious activities. Set up parental controls or other filters on devices and apps if needed. This can help limit exposure to inappropriate content or restrict access to certain features. Encourage seniors to only use trustworthy websites and apps. Make sure they know how to spot fake websites or illegitimate apps. Help seniors understand how their personal data may be used online. They should only share information on a need-to-know basis and be aware of how it could be used without their consent. Promote the use of privacy settings and social media and other sites. This can help to control what information is shared publicly and with hope. Encourage seniors to use strong passwords and never share them with anyone. Be caution when sharing photos or videos online. Ensure that anyone who appears in them has given

00:31:57
their permission first and consider whether the content may be sensitive or embarrassing. Teach some of our fishing scams. Show them how to spot fake news. Explain the importance of privacy settings and social media. Help them understand how cookies work and why they should clear their browsing history regularly. Help them understand the risks of sharing personal information online. Encourage them to use a VPN when possible. Remind them to log out of accounts where they're finished using them. Ultimately, the best way to ensure that seniors are safe when using technology is to educate them about the potential risks and how to avoid them. By taking these steps, we can help ensure that our seniors can enjoy the benefits of technology without becoming victims of fraud or identity theft. Topic 9. How can policymakers increase the adoption of technology by older adults? As the population ages, policymakers want older adults

00:32:58
to adapt more technology. It can improve communication with family and friends, provide more information, and entertainment, and increase independence. Policy makers must overcome many barriers to help older adults adapt new technologies. Here are just a few ways that policymakers can increase senior tech adoption. Make technology more accessible. Seniors may not be able to afford the latest gadgets or may not know how to use them, so policymakers can make technology more accessible by providing subsidies or discounts and devices and services or by offering training programs. Simplify the user interface. Many seniors find modern interfaces to complicate or confusing. By simplifying the user interface, policymakers can make it easier for older adults to use these technologies. Encourage social interaction. One of the main reasons why seniors use technology is to stay connected with loved

00:33:53
one. Policy makers can encourage social interaction by creating opportunities for older adults to use technology together, such as in senior centers or community groups. Promote health and wellness applications. There are many applications that can help seniors stay healthy and active. Policy makers can promote these applications by working with healthcare providers or fitness companies. Increase accessibility options. Many seniors have difficulties using traditional input methods, such as keyboards and mice. Policy makers can increase accessibility by requiring companies to offer alternative input methods, such as voice recognition, software or eye tracking devices. We lose costs. One of the main barriers to adoption is a cause of technology. Policy makers can reduce costs by working with providers to offer discounts or by investing in the infrastructure projects that bring down the overall cost of ownership. Improve customer

00:34:57
service. Another barrier to adoption is a lack of customer support for new users. By improving customer support, policymakers can make it easier for older adults to get help when they need it. Address privacy concerns. Seniors may be reluctant to adapt new technologies if they feel privacy invasion. These concerns can be addressed by passing data privacy laws or working with companies to improve their privacy policies. Encourage intergenerational learning. One way to increase adoption is to encourage intergenerational learning where younger people teach older people how to use technologies. This can be done through programs in school, community centers or at home. Make a public commitment. Well, policymakers can commit to increasing tech adoption among older adults. This commitment can generate awareness and support from other stakeholders such as businesses, nonprofits and government agencies. As our world

00:36:01
becomes increasingly digitized, it's important that everyone has access to the resources they need to participate in the new digital age regardless of their age or income level. By taking steps to make technology more accessible and affordable, policymakers can help close the digital divide and ensure that everyone can reap the benefits of living in a connected world. Topic 10. Well, the last topic is how sales and marketing automation can benefit tech companies serving seniors with affordability, accessibility and safety for older adults. Sales and marketing automation can be a boon for tech companies trying to reach out to senior consumers. In today's day and age, it's more important than ever for companies to have a silent online presence. By utilizing sales and marketing automation, tech companies can more easily connect with potential senior consumers who are searching for their products and services

00:36:59
online. Sales and marketing automation can help tech companies to successfully connect with this important group of consumers. By providing them with a streamlined way to receive information about new products and services, as well as special offers and discounts. And sales and marketing automation can help to create a more personal connection with seniors. By providing a way for tech companies to gather feedback and address any concerns they may have. So, ultimately, by using sales and marketing automation, tech companies can build strong relationships with seniors and better meet their needs. There is a huge opportunity for tech companies to serve this growing demographic of senior consumers. Well, here are just a few ways that tech companies serving older adults can benefit from sales and marketing automation. First, reach a wider audience. Older adults are one of the fastest growing demographics online. So, by using sales and

00:37:57
marketing automation, tech companies can reach them where they are spending time online. Save time and money. By automating your sales and marketing efforts, there is no need to hire additional staff or budget for advertising. All the work is done through automation. Increase leads and sales. It's improving that automated sales and marketing campaigns generate more leads and sales and traditional methods. Nurture relationships. Older adults are more likely to be loyal customers if they feel value and appreciated. Sales and marketing automation can help you nurture these valuable relationships with automated personalized communication. Get insights into customer behavior. Automation provides valuable data that can help you understand your customers better and make smarter marketing decisions. Offer better customer service. Respond to customer questions with queries faster with automation. Stay top of mind. Well, with automated communications,

00:38:59
you can stay top of mind with your senior consumers with very little effort and they'll appreciate the thoughtfulness. In a fast paced world, it's difficult to keep up with changing technology. As a result, many seniors feel left behind and isolated. By using sales and marketing automation, tech companies can reach out to seniors and help them stay connected. Automation can help tech companies connect with seniors by setting up accounts, teaching them how to use new features, or providing customer service. Sales and marketing automation can help tech companies better understand the needs of seniors and tailor their products and services. And by helping seniors stay connected, tech companies can increase sales and build loyal customers. So, which out if you'd like to discuss how sales and marketing automation can help your company better serve seniors? Thank you so much for your time and have a great day.