Living, Learning and Keeping in the Technology Know

While some older adults aren’t interested in learning new technologies, preferring old-school methods versus keeping up with rapid advancements and adapting to constant change, that’s certainly not the case for Longhorn Village’s tech-savvy and plugged-in seniors. Here, intellectually curious residents pride themselves on staying in the know on all things tech.

They’re welcoming the latest innovations with open arms by:

• Skipping the lines at the grocery store by placing orders online and stocking up on household essentials through Amazon
• Using apps like FaceTime, Marco Polo or a video call device for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, no matter where they are
• Navigating with their car’s GPS or Waze app to find the best route to a UT game or downtown Austin on a Friday night
• Asking Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant to set appointment reminders, play their favorite music, let them know if they need an umbrella that day, and recap news and world events
• Wearing Fitbits and Apple Watches to track their steps, meet fitness goals and monitor their heart rates
• Sharing photos and videos on Facebook and Instagram to show family and friends how they’re living a vibrant retirement life filled with Longhorn spirit

And it’s not just residents who are on board the technology train. Longhorn Village team members are continuously exploring new ways to help residents live well and dream big — whether we’re rolling out Levo, the robot, to deliver resident meals during the pandemic or launching a Floorcaster tool so future residents can discover the perfect residence floor plan that fits their budget and fills their imagination.

 

Senior Tips for Surviving and Thriving in a Digital World

Compared to 20 years ago, technology today is being developed and released at lightning speed. The pace has resulted in breakthroughs in innovation and greater accessibility while transforming how we stay connected, informed and engaged.

Gadgets and systems are intertwined in ways we never thought possible, paving the way for incredible new capabilities and efficiencies. The seamless connectivity between devices and systems breaks barriers and creates opportunities for unprecedented collaboration and innovation.

In recognition of lifelong learning, we’re sharing ways for older adults to stay informed with the latest technologies, keep connected with loved ones, enhance their daily lives and protect themselves in the digital world:

• Read technology blogs and magazines to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in technology.
• Attend technology workshops and classes to learn new skills, such as how to use smartphones, tablets and computers.
• Use online tutorials or YouTube to learn new technology skills, such as social media platforms, video chat apps and other digital tools.
• Join online communities related to your interests, hobbies or favorite activities to connect with like-minded people and learn about innovative technology tools and apps.
• Stay in touch with family members through video chat, social media and messaging apps.
• Use safety software, such as antivirus and antimalware programs, to protect your devices from online threats.
• Always use strong passwords and update your devices with the latest software and security patches to protect yourself from security vulnerabilities.
• Be cautious about sharing personal information online and avoid responding to unsolicited emails or messages from unknown sources.

Aspire to be Inspired by Lifelong Learning

Longhorn Village’s unwavering focus on lifelong learning stems from our belief that gaining knowledge and sharing life experiences empowers seniors to live with a strong sense of purpose and achieve their highest functional intelligence.

Our engaged and knowledge-thirsty residents actively seek continuing education, personal growth opportunities and classes — from exploring the world’s wonders and an introduction to improv to discovering how Texas has changed the world and more.

In 2022, we took advanced learning to the next level by launching Inquiring Minds Lifelong Learning, a series of four to six weekly in-person sessions on special interest topics led by a subject-matter expert with a unique perspective. The cost is $30 for residents and $100 per person for non-residents.

Longhorn Village’s technophiles were eager to connect with like-minded active learners for the “Emerging Trends in Technology” course presented by Dr. Madan Gopal, chief data architect at Texas Health and Human Services.

If you’re a lifelong learner interested in plugging into the educational journeys offered at Longhorn Village, call us at 512.503.8288 or contact us online to schedule a tour to see if we’re a good fit for you.

Featured Image: BBernad / Shutterstock