Why Encourage Clients to Use Technology Once You Become a PSW

There are so many important ways that seniors can benefit from technology in 2018. From expanding their social network to keeping track of appointments, there are many benefits that technology can offer. There are even a number of cognitive and, yes, physical benefits that come with seniors exploring and using technology. Technology can also help seniors become more independent, instilling them with greater confidence and higher self-esteem when they succeed in using new technology and devices.

PSWs new and old can encourage the use of technology when caring for their clients. Read on to learn why and how!

Smartphones Can Help Clients Better Maintain Their Medication Schedule

Smartphones are such useful little gizmos. While there’s a lot that can be done with them, one handy feature is the scheduling apps and automatic reminders that these little devices can provide. This can be useful for remembering events, appointments, and family visits. In addition, it can also help clients keep track of their medication schedule so that they always remember to take prescription medications at designated times.

While caring for clients, PSWs can help seniors better understand the features of their smartphone, as well as how to use the calendar or scheduling app to set reminders that, with an alarm, notify them when they need to take a certain medication. Many calendar apps also allow the user to input a written message, which clients can use to mark their dosage, should they forget.

There are also apps specifically designed not only to remind seniors whenever they need to take their medication, but when they need a refill, as well as alerts for missed doses and instructions on what they need to do should they forget to take a pill. Grads with PSW training can help clients learn to use these apps to check and track their dosage history. This means fewer problems with maintaining a pill schedule, and an added helpful tool for seniors who want to maintain their independence.

Grads with PSW Training Can Help Clients Connect With Others Over the Internet

There’s no question that the internet has helped people of all ages expand their social network. What makes mastering the internet so important to seniors is how it can help them keep in touch with their loved ones. For seniors whose loved ones are overseas or living in another city, Skype, social media, and email can help them stay connected even when regular visits may be harder to organize.

Graduates of a personal support worker course also understand how being able to talk with family and friends online can make all the difference for seniors who feel isolated from time to time. With the help of their PSW, clients will be able to see their friends and family as they chat, giving them a deeper sense of connectivity and fulfillment.

Bring on the Fun with Some Video Games for Cognitive Growth!

Video games and seniors may sound like an oxymoron, but the mental and even physical health benefits for clients can be significant. For example, seniors can play fitness games on a variety of different consoles, like the Wii and X-Box 360, to get some exercise. There are many games that can simulate sports like tennis, bowling, and even obstacle courses, helping clients stay in shape while also giving a boost to their coordination.

Clients can also play console or handheld video games, like Brain Age, to help them enhance their cognitive skills. Puzzles, crosswords, and Sudoku apps can also be downloaded onto smartphones, which can be used to have fun and improve memory while on the go.

Are you ready to start a fun and rewarding career in healthcare?

Become a PSW with training from Anderson College!