Technology is key for seniors during COVID-19 pandemic
HIGHLAND PARK – With limits on in-person family visits and social distancing guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an escalating need to ensure older adults living at home can remain as engaged as possible, according to a release.
Although challenging, especially among elders who do not commonly use technology, it is important for loved ones and caregivers to introduce connected devices – from a basic tablet and smartphone, to virtual reality and interactive gaming – to keep them as connected as possible as months of isolation can prompt depression and other lasting ailments, the release said.
At the forefront of the issue is Marcy Salzberg, director of social work and dementia care at Parker, who handles the intake of all new guests at the residential campuses in Piscataway, Highland Park, New Brunswick, Franklin and Monroe. She is seeing many incoming residents eager for interaction and engagement after remaining at home, often alone, since the coronavirus shut down many parts of society in mid-March, the release said.