Thanksgiving is past. A week ago today was Cyber Monday, when online retailers made over $1.25 billion in sales!! No matter how much denial I may be in, there is no escaping the fact that the holiday season is upon us. I am not even close to being prepared, but I am thankful for the ability to shop online! Like for Cyber Monday shoppers, it fits into my schedule. Many of us are in the position where we have a load of responsibilities and very limited time. But how many of us have considered that online shopping may also be helpful for our senior loved ones?
As I reflect on my family and the many patients I have had the privilege to care for over the years, I remember that many spoke of the fear and frustration of losing their independence. Giving up driving can become a significant barrier in maintaining independence. Physical conditions that reduce the ability to safely leave home, with or without assistance, can cause frustration and isolation. And inclement weather can contribute to our older loved ones being more homebound and isolated during the winter months in colder regions.
But it is important to maintain as much independence and dignity as possible throughout our lives.
Today we have technologies that can help maintain some of this independence. The telephone and television allow for the ability to shop for personal items and gifts from catalogues and shopping networks. Online shopping via the computer expands these choices. Today one can buy just about anything online. Whether buying birthday or holiday gifts, shoes and clothing for personal use or shopping for groceries or pet supplies from the local store, the web allows people to maintain this independence from their home. Online banking is another opportunity to maintain independence. Bookmarking favorite sites can assist in easy access to the web with minimal typing.
As caregivers, we look for ways in which our loved ones can maintain as much independence as possible. Computers can be a useful tool in improving quality of life for the entire family!
On behalf of Telikin, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy holiday season!
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Nancy - boy no kidding. My mom is 88 years old and she started out with Web TV until we convinced her she could do so much more. Finally five years ago I said I wasn’t leaving town until she got a computer. We got her a Mac and she loves it. She is very disgusted with her acquaintances who say “oh no, I’m not interested in all that.” Too bad - she keeps in touch with old friends and all the family via email, if she wants to know something about a country or something going on in the world, she “surfs the net.” Need a restaurant recommendation? She hops on the computer. She even learned how to Skype!!!!! We are blessed to have these resources at our fingertips…
Mary,
That is a wonderful story about your mom! It is so exciting to hear about people like your mom who are embracing computer technology and using it in every day life! I see the positive difference it has made in my family’s life since my parents now enjoy computing. Thank you for sharing!!!
Nancy
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