In today’s digital world, regular use of technology is an essential part of living a full life. One could argue that Canadians everywhere are expected to acquire a basic understanding of how to operate common tools such as a computer and the internet. Online services offered by the government, banks, pharmacies, retail outlets, and other public/private resources all assume a working knowledge of using websites and the gadgets needed to access them.

Technology goes far beyond the notion of just using a computer. Cellphones, smartphones, and tablets are quickly becoming integral pieces of a modern lifestyle, which is quite obvious when observing how young people interact with these devices. However, it's common for many adults 55 and over to lack the skills needed to adopt these tools. This leaves a large percentage of Canada's aging population feeling isolated and discouraged about technology. Another barrier seniors face is that technology changes over time. As technology gets better, this change happens more quickly, leaving those who are not "keeping up" behind. Often, this gap is referred to as the ‘digital divide’.

"It’s important for everyone to recognize the role technology plays in our increasingly virtual community."

The role of technology

It’s important for everyone to recognize the role technology plays in our increasingly virtual community. Whether it’s accessing information and entertainment, learning new things and exploring unfamiliar places, or connecting with family and friends around the world, technology has forever changed how we interact with and understand the world around us.

The amount of communication that technology enables is remarkable. Due to cellphones, Canadians are constantly connected with the people around them wherever they go, through both traditional telephone calls and text messages. Many young people prefer texting over phone calls because of the efficiency it creates. Some grandparents purchase cellphones to enhance their connectivity with grandchildren through texting. Cellphones also help people feel safe when they are out and about; knowing that assistance from a loved one is only a phone call away if it’s needed. For this reason, it’s advisable that everyone own a cellphone, even if only for emergencies.

Smartphones, which are highly functional cellphones with an internet connection, take this communication tool one step further. Facebook, email, Skype, and a variety of other internet-enabled communication methods, can be employed on the go using smartphones, often free-of-charge if wireless internet is available. The options to stay connected with family and community have never been more abundant.

"Regular technology use greatly enhances someone’s ability to age in place, which is a desire for many of Canada’s older adults."

Large array of choice

The choices available to technology users are also quite incredible. From online banking, driver’s license renewals, and signing out library books over the internet, to ordering groceries, prescriptions, and eye glasses from a website, computers, smartphones, and tablets create many opportunities for people comfortable with using them. Having these options are not only convenient; they also improve independence for users who cannot easily do these things without help from others. As a result, regular technology use greatly enhances someone’s ability to age in place, which is a desire for many of Canada’s older adults. The only catch: you need to know how to use technology.

Due to the fast pace that technology changes and improves, it’s everyone’s individual responsibility to stay up-to-date with what technology is available and how to use it confidently and comfortably. It’s not likely that less technology will be used in the future, so staying informed about how to use it should be a priority for us all, in order to live a full life in our digital world.