According to data collected from Commonwealth Fund 2021 International Health Policy Survey of Older Adults, the percentage of those who reported feeling isolated jumped from 27 percent in 2018 to 56 percent after the start of the pandemic. This is particularly concerning for older adults with multiple chronic conditions or functional limitations who require assistance with daily activities. Feelings of isolation not only create emotional distress but also have the potential to further exacerbate their already complicated health problems and even contribute to early mortality.
At Telikin, many of our customers come to us because they want to connect with their families by means of using video chat, sharing photos, getting on Facebook and social media, and doing email. When travel or in-person visits arent possible, the computer offers remote visits as the next best thing to being there with loved ones! Many of our customers have viewed a grandchilds wedding over Zoom, had virtual holiday dinners, and celebrated birthdays!
In addition to staying in touch with families, computers help seniors maintain other areas of life. Video chat and live streaming platforms such as Zoom have also allowed many seniors to worship virtually when in-person attendance wasnt possible.
Telehealth visits have helped seniors stay in touch with their health care providers without venturing into the office. Instead of delaying taking care of an issue, they can continue to keep up with their health.
Many of our customers expressed interest in learning online shopping. Whether shopping for their groceries, gifts for their loved ones, or items for personal use, the convenience and comfort of shopping from home has helped seniors stay more independent.
A computer was once thought of as a luxury, but now it has become a necessity. Historically, the challenge for many seniors has been finding a computer that is easy and reliable enough for them to use. This is the reason for Telikin - the easy-to-use computer for seniors, designed specifically for them. While we all hope that the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us, the need for technology to stay in touch will remain. Technology isnt a total replacement for in-person connection, but it is a wonderful supplement to, and substitute for when the need arises.