Bridging the Digital Divide: Getting Older Clients Comfortable with Tech

Did you know that 76% of retired people in the UK over the age of 65 have no *basic digital skills at all? (UK Consumer Digital Index 2018).

[*Basic digital skills are measured in 5 key areas: managing information, communicating, transacting, problem solving and creating, according to The Tech Partnership Basic Digital Skills Framework.]

And with increasing use of digital technology in healthcare, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and the Internet, the “digital divide” (i.e. unequal access) is an ongoing concern.

But what exactly does this mean for elderly and vulnerable people living in their own homes?

Simply put, bridging the digital divide is about helping everyone, including older adults, to confidently access and benefit from digital technologies.

With technology now touching every aspect of daily life, those who aren’t comfortable using it or have no interest in it, could end up feeling left behind or isolated.

At Tagtronics, we understand the challenges our older homecare clients face.

By proactively supporting homecare agencies to bridge the digital divide, we help our clients stay connected, independent and empowered.

In this blog, we explore why technology matters for elderly people, how carers can help support them and where all-in-one homecare software fits in.

Why Technology Matters for the Elderly Living Alone in the UK

For an older person living independently, tech isn’t just convenient but transformative.

It connects them with family, friends and carers, and most importantly keeps them safe.

Technology for elderly people living alone is specifically designed with ease-of-use in mind.

Consider telehealth, for example. These smart devices and systems quietly provide reassurance by remotely monitoring safety and helping to provide quality, person-centred care.

Examples include:

• Motion sensors that can detect and alert carers when a client has had a fall.
• Video telecare for remote appointments with doctors and carers reducing the need to travel.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) to automate routine jobs like note taking or predict when a client might need extra help.

For family members and care providers, knowing their loved ones are safe at all times brings invaluable peace of mind.

Practical technologies like these can significantly enhance an older person’s quality of life, offering security, confidence and connection.

With the added benefit of preventing avoidable trips to the hospital and reducing pressure on the NHS.

Making Tech Manageable: How Carers Can Help

We understand it can be daunting for older adults to tackle new technology. That's where your care team come in to play a crucial role.

With a little patience, empathy and a practical approach, carers can guide clients to comfortably embrace new technology, turning their initial apprehension into genuine enthusiasm.

Here are some practical tips for your care team to make technology less intimidating for older users:

• Keep it simple: Start with easy-to-use devices like basic tablets, smartphones, or voice-controlled assistants (e.g. Alexa or Google Home). These technologies are often straightforward to use and quick to setup.
• Demonstrate slowly: Show each feature clearly, patiently repeating steps whenever necessary.
• Encourage practice: Encourage regular practice sessions with the tech until your client feels more comfortable and confident.
• Offer reassurance: Remind your client that everyone learns at their own pace and it's perfectly okay to make mistakes.

By approaching technology with compassion, carers can truly transform their clients' everyday lives, as well as free up their own time.

Supporting Offline and Overlooked Older People

As a significant number of older people still remain offline and excluded from digital benefits, Age UK’s Offline and Overlooked campaign highlights the urgent need to support older people who are not online. They encourage:

• Businesses and other organisations to maintain non-digital access points.
• Training initiatives for older adults to develop their confidence and tech skills.
• Affordable Internet services and devices for older people, especially on low incomes.
• Tailored support to help elderly people learn digital skills at their own pace.

Digital exclusion leaves older people at a distinct disadvantage, both socially and economically. Age UK’s campaign aims to create a fairer, more inclusive society where no-one is left behind, regardless of their digital ability.

Enhancing Home Care Through Care Planning Software

As leading providers of home care software for over 25 years, we've seen firsthand how care planning software can help carers deliver outstanding support.

Tools like domiciliary care management software and specialised home care software aren't just beneficial for carers; they're life-enhancing for clients too.

These dedicated user-friendly systems provide:

• Instant real-time communication: Easily share care plans, medication reminders and important updates instantly with carers, clients and families.
• Efficient scheduling: Quickly coordinate visits, manage tasks and adjust care plans as needed, helping to provide consistent, high-quality care.
• Personalised support: Use detailed care records to offer tailored, compassionate and responsive care.

Through our innovative Family & Friends app and homecare software, technology genuinely becomes a supportive partner in your client’s everyday lives.

Success Stories: Technology Bringing Real Change

At Tagtronics, we've experienced countless positive stories about older clients embracing technology.

One elderly client, initially hesitant about technology, now loves her easy-to-use tablet, regularly video-calling her grandchildren and attending online social groups.

Another client benefited immensely from telecare systems, enabling him to maintain independence safely, knowing he can easily call for help anytime, day or night.

These practical tech solutions truly empower elderly clients, boosting their confidence, social engagement and overall quality of life.

Over the years, we’ve supported hundreds of homecare providers and heard many stories like these from their older clients.

Embracing the Digital Age Together – Let's Get Started!

Bridging the digital divide means empowering older clients to confidently navigate their digital world.

At Tagtronics Care, our commitment goes way beyond simply providing homecare software - we support carers and clients alike with reliable technology solutions, practical training and compassionate guidance every step of the way.

Ready to explore how Tagtronics can help your homecare clients embrace technology comfortably and confidently? Contact us today and discover the difference our practical, compassionate approach makes.