Baby Boomers Coping with Technology

Using today’s technology is easier for some than for others. While Generation X, Y and today’s youth have fully embraced technology in all its forms, we can see Baby Boomers coping with technology, though some have been slower to cope. Nonetheless they are trying to catch up and succeeding beautifully.

Change is a constant in life and the ability to adapt to change, no matter what age is crucial in order to survive. If there’s something that defines our times today, it’s the extensive use of technology. Computers, mobile phones, video games, various electronic gadgets and of course, the Internet are part of our daily lives today. Smartphones, laptops and other digital devices have become quite commonplace and entire cities are now wired to provide connection to the World Wide Web at any given time.

Baby Boomers coping with technology

There are about seventy  million baby boomers today. This generation of people born between 1946 to 1964 is now hitting the age of 65, becoming senior citizens.

Though the group may be getting older, they are also adapting by becoming more tech savvy. Surveys show that about 15% over the age of 55 are now on smartphones such as iPhones. They are also realizing that using technology isn’t so intimidating after all. Once the initial intimidation factor has worn off, Baby Boomers are realizing that it can be quite fun to use.

Why join the bandwagon

Technology and all its forms are here to stay, only evolving and becoming more a daily part of our lives.

Though the devices or even just the idea may seem quite intimidating, it has become necessary to learn and even use it. For one thing, technology has made life easier in some ways.

Staying connected

Email, instant messaging and other social media have helped reconnect people and helped them stay connected. It’s easier today to find your high school classmate from some three decades ago, thanks to Facebook and other social networking sites. Email makes it’s easier to stay in touch with friends.

Skype, Facetime and Viber allow family members to stay in touch, so it’s easier to say goodnight to your grandchild or say hello to your loved one across the country. Grandparents can see pictures of their grandkids thanks to Instagram.

Shopping made easy

Coupon clippers don’t need to wait for the Sunday paper since it’s available for download now. Buyers can go online and research product reviews before making a purchase.

Keeping fit

Technology can also help boomers stay more active, which is essential in staying young and healthy. Wii and Xbox games have gotten people moving and it’s become easier to play since there are no cumbersome controls to worry about. There are also many health related apps available for download, such as calorie counters and even phone-based pedometers.

Just do it

Local communities have classes offered that cater specifically to seniors to help them become more computer literate. There are all free product classes available to help new users learn the features of their newly purchased digital devices.

With a generation known for its inventiveness, sense of adventure and intelligence, Baby Boomers will be sure to cope with the tech boom.