The AsianScientist article from December 10, 2024, talks about how older adults in Asia are using technology to stay connected and active. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, a group of older women meets weekly to dance and socialize. They use smartphones to stay in touch, share videos, and plan future activities. This not only helps them stay physically active but also improves their mental well-being.
Across Asia, older adults are embracing digital tools to stay connected and engaged. They use messaging apps, social media, and online services for news, classes, and shopping. These activities help combat social isolation, which is important for their overall health. Research has shown that staying socially connected can improve physical and mental well-being in older adults.
Researchers are developing tech solutions to help older people stay connected and independent. For example, the TakeMe app provides easy access to local e-hailing services and community volunteer networks. Companies and social enterprises are also creating senior-friendly apps and platforms to support older adults in various aspects of their lives.
Governments in countries like Singapore and Malaysia are investing in initiatives to support the well-being of older adults through digital connectivity. These efforts aim to improve cognitive health and mobility in older populations. While technology can be beneficial, there are concerns about older adults becoming too reliant on digital devices and less physically active. “We don’t have enough data yet to determine if the negatives outweigh the positives,” she said.
A group of universities in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand are working together on the Digitally Inclusive, Healthy Ageing Communities (DIHAC) research program. This study, funded by the Japanese government, will look at how digital inclusion affects healthy aging in older people from these countries.
Saramma Joseph, a 67-year-old resident of Kuala Lumpur, has experienced the challenges of aging firsthand. She cared for her mother and mother-in-law through dementia and Alzheimer’s, respectively, with limited resources. The rise of technology has empowered Joseph to access information and monitor her own health more effectively. Her smartwatch helped diagnose a heart condition that had gone unnoticed for years.
Home-based digital health solutions, like smartwatches, are becoming increasingly important for older individuals to stay connected to care services. As Malaysia’s population ages, there is a growing need for these technologies to support independent living.
In Malaysia, where the aging population is increasing, advanced high-tech health solutions like personal mobility devices are not yet feasible due to infrastructure limitations. Researchers are developing IoT tools, like smartwatch-based health monitoring systems, to help older individuals stay connected to healthcare services while maintaining their privacy.
Older individuals like Joseph value staying connected to their communities and using technology to stay active and engaged. Technologies like e-hailing services and text messaging help them maintain independence and social connections as they age.
Overall, technology is seen as a valuable tool for supporting healthy aging and independence among older populations.
Source link
