Abtract
Technology has the potential to optimize healthy ageing among the elderly by addressing the physical, cognitive, and social challenges faced by the ageing population above the age of 75 years old. This report demonstrates that wearable devices and mobile applications can track and monitor physical activity and health metrics. At the same time, virtual wellness programs and telemedicine services can provide remote access to healthcare and support. Robots powered by artificial intelligence (A.I.) can provide companionship and social interaction, while assistive technologies such as smart home devices and wearable health monitoring devices can help the elderly maintain their independence. Transportation services, such as ride-sharing apps and G.P.S. tracking, can also assist the elderly in participating in social and recreational activities. It concludes by outlining the evidence-based solution to improve ageing and recommending how technology can combat elderly loneliness. These recommendations can help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life and improve their physical and mental health.
Keywords: Physical, Cognitive, And Social Challenges, 75 Years Old, Artificial Intelligence, And Wearable Health Monitoring Devices
Introduction
Ageing is the natural process by which humans experience physical and mental changes as they age. These changes can be physical, cognitive, or social, impacting a person’s ability to function and live independently. This reports looks into the needs of the ageing population of 75 years old and above, mainly focusing on their needs while highlighting the impact of currently advancing technology in improving the quality of their lives of the ageing population. As established, individuals can maintain their health and well-being by staying active, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining social connections. Additionally, they may seek assistance from healthcare providers and community resources. This paper specifically addresses the role of technology in promoting healthy ageing in the elderly. It is appetent to contextualize the concepts. This paper discusses socioemotional selectivity and reflexive self-theories applicable to both 75-year-old males and females, as well as social policies and the role of charities. Because of the increasing demand for quality holistic patient-centred care among the ageing population, there is a rising need to employ technology in care administration.
Healthy Ageing among those Over 75 Years of Age
Trends show that people over 75-year-old men and women, may face various obstacles that compromise their quality of life and ability to function independently. In most cases, these obstacles may be physical, cognitive, or social (Treiber, 2021). According to Treiber (2021), a decline in physical function, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including a loss of muscle mass and bone density, chronic health conditions, and mobility issues, is one of the challenges faced by the elderly. Bathing, dressing, and cooking may be challenging for the elderly due to their diminished physical capacities.
Memory, processing speed, and decision-making ability may all diminish due to cognitive issues. Memory loss may make it harder for the elderly to recall critical information and make judgments, affecting their capacity to live independently (Nguyen et al.,2011). Social problems include a decline in social relationships and involvement in activities and alterations in family and community roles and obligations. Nguyen et al. (2011) acknowledge that ageing may result in feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can have detrimental effects on a person’s mental and physical health. To overcome these obstacles, elderly folks may need assistance from healthcare practitioners and community resources, such as home healthcare services, senior centres, and programs intended exclusively for older adults. In addition, it is essential for the elderly to maintain their physical and mental health through activities such as exercise and socialization and to seek assistance from family and friends when necessary.
Employing Technology in Improving Quality of life
With the current technological advancement, some avenues can be explored in optimizing healthy ageing among the elderly. Researchers appreciate that there are several ways in which technology can be used to improve the physical and mental health of ageing adults and to assist them in maintaining their independence and quality of life (Baraković et al., 2020). The researchers appreciate that wearable device and mobile apps that track physical activity, monitor health metrics such as heart rate and sleep patterns, and provide medication reminders are one-way technology that can promote healthy aging (Abuwarda et al., 2022). In particular, Abuwarda et al. (2022) point out that these tools can help elderly individuals remain active and effectively manage their health conditions. Technology can also facilitate social connections and participation in activities, which can be crucial for elderly individuals with limited mobility or who live alone.
Similarly, robots powered by artificial intelligence (A.I.) can provide elderly individuals with companionship and social interaction, reducing their feelings of loneliness and isolation. In addition to providing companionship and conversation, these robots can provide practical assistance, such as medication reminders (Sun et al.,2021). Sun et al. (2021) state that some have facial recognition technology and can respond to verbal commands, enabling more personalized interactions. A.I. robots can assist seniors in maintaining their independence and managing their health.
Socioemotional Selectivity and Reflexive Self-Theories
The socioemotional theory is a psychological theory that focuses on the interactions and influences between social relationships and emotions. The theory outline that social relationships play a significant role in shaping an individual’s emotional experiences, and emotions shape the nature and quality of social relationships (Eyster et al., 2022). For individuals over the age of 75, Eyster et al. (2022) state that maintaining supportive social relationships and effectively managing emotions may be of particular importance. People may experience changes in their physical and cognitive functioning as they age, which can impact their ability to engage in activities and maintain social ties. Failure to maintain social ties can result in feelings of loneliness and isolation, which have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.
However, according to Eyster et al. (2022), research demonstrates that social support and emotional intelligence can assist elderly individuals in coping with stress and adversity and preserving their sense of well-being. Abuwarda et al.,2022 add that solid social connection and the ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions as well as the emotions of others may help elderly individuals adapt to the challenges of ageing and maintain a high quality of life. Therefore, ageing individuals need to prioritize social connections and emotional health.
Psychological Theories of Growing Older
Psychological theories of ageing are frameworks that attempt to comprehend and explain the changes and difficulties that individuals face as they age. These theories can provide insight into how social, cognitive, and psychological well-being may change over the lifespan and can inform interventions and support strategies to promote healthy and satisfying ageing (Mackenzie and Abdulrazaq, 2021). Mackenzie and Abdulrazaq (2021) appreciate that the socioemotional selectivity theory is an influential psychological theory of ageing, which posits that as people age, they become more selective in their social interactions, placing a greater emphasis on quality over quantity and prioritizing relationships that provide emotional support and meaning. A heightened awareness of time and a desire to make the most of the remaining years are driving the shift from quantity to quality as the focal point of society.
Another significant psychological theory of ageing is the continuity theory, which posits that individuals tend to maintain their personality traits and values throughout their lives and that personal growth and development can continue into old age (McElroy‐Heltzel et al., 2022). According to McElroy‐Heltzel et al. (2022), psychological theories suggest that individuals can maintain their identity and a sense of purpose as they age by engaging in meaningful activities and experiences. In conjunction with social policies, psychological theories of ageing typically provide valuable insights into how individuals experience the aging process and the strategies they can employ to maintain their health and quality of life as they age.
Social policies
On the other hand, social policies are government or organization-level policies that aim to address social issues and promote the welfare of individuals and communities. A variety of social policies mainly cater to the requirements of those over 75 years old (Delbaere et al., 2021). The provision of social security benefits, such as pensions and disability payments, is an example of a social policy that covers the elderly over the age of 75. These benefits can help provide financial stability and security for elderly individuals who can no longer work or have limited income.
Other social policies that may be relevant for elderly individuals over the age of 75 include healthcare programs and services, such as Medicare and Medicaid, which provide elderly individuals with access to medical care and related services. Delbaere et al., 2021 also outline the social policies that include initiatives related to housing, such as affordable housing programmes and home modification services, and programs that provide transportation and other assistance to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life.
Critical Evaluation
Function of Charities
Charities play a vital role in reducing loneliness among the elderly and may strengthen their efforts using artificial intelligence (A.I.) technology. The effects of loneliness and social isolation on the physical and mental health of the elderly may be mitigated via the provision of various support services and programs by charitable organizations (Price et al., 2021). As Price et al. (2021) appreciate, the development and deployment of AI-powered robots and other assistive devices is one method in which charities might use A.I. technologies to minimize loneliness among the elderly. Companionship and social connection, as well as practical support with activities such as medication administration and health monitoring, may be provided by these technologies to the elderly.
In addition, charities may use A.I. technology to link seniors with social support resources and services, such as volunteer programs and community centres. For instance, using chatbots or other AI-powered platforms, the charity may give information about available resources and link seniors with the right services (Liu et al., 2021). Charity organizations play a crucial role in promoting healthy ageing among the elderly. Liu et al.,2021 further state that by using online platforms and video conferencing tools, charities can offer virtual wellness programs and activities to achieve this objective. These programs, such as fitness classes and art and craft workshops, can promote physical and mental health and offer opportunities for socialization and engagement to the elderly.
Providing elderly individuals with remote access to medical care and support via telemedicine platforms is another way charities can use technology to promote healthy ageing. According to Liu et al. (2021), remote access to medical care can be especially beneficial for seniors with limited mobility or rural residents with limited access to healthcare services. In addition to providing virtual wellness programs and telemedicine services, charities can use websites and social media platforms to provide information and resources related to healthy ageing and connect seniors with support groups and other resources.
To further promote healthy ageing, charitable organizations can provide elderly individuals with assistive technologies such as smart home devices and wearable health monitoring devices (Oba et al.,2021). Smart home and wearable health monitoring devices may assist seniors in maintaining their independence and better managing their health. Finally, according to Liu et al. (2021), the charity may employ technology such as ride-sharing applications and G.P.S. monitoring to give older folks transportation services, enabling them to preserve their freedom and engage in social activities.
Evidence-Based Practices
Promoting healthy ageing for those over 75 is a crucial objective since this age group is at higher risk for physical and cognitive deterioration, social isolation, and other age-related difficulties. There are a variety of strategies supported by data that may be used to promote healthy aging in this demographic. Liu et al. (2021) state that encouraging regular physical exercise is an efficient method for promoting good aging. Regular physical exercise may involve walking, swimming, or participation in programs geared toward older persons. Physical exercise has been shown to benefit older persons’ physical function, cognitive function, and general quality of life.
Promoting healthy eating habits is another essential strategy for promoting healthy ageing. Healthy eating habits include giving access to nutritious, nutrient-dense meals and educating them about the benefits of a balanced diet. Oba et al. (2021) note that a healthy diet may aid in the maintenance of physical and mental health and lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. In addition to physical exercise and a good diet, Oba et al., 2021 state that social support and participation are essential to supporting healthy ageing. Social support can include providing elderly individuals with opportunities to engage in social activities, interact with others, and access support services such as transportation and home care.
Access to healthcare services, such as preventive care and regular checkups, is also essential to identify and treat health problems before they become severe. Early identification can help older adults maintain their physical function and overall health. In addition, it is essential to promote assistive technologies, such as smart home devices and wearable health monitoring devices, to help the elderly maintain their independence and better manage their health (Ahmed et al., 2022). These technologies can provide practical assistance and aid in enhancing life quality.
Promoting the significance of mental health and improving access to mental health services assist the elderly in coping with stress and adversity is another evidence-based practice. Maintaining one’s mental health is a crucial component of healthy aging. According to Ahmed et al. (2022), encouraging meaningful activities and hobbies can also aid in promoting healthy aging, as these pursuits can improve cognitive function, mental health, and overall quality of life. Participating in personally meaningful activities can help maintain purpose and well-being. Providing assistance and resources to assist older adults in managing chronic diseases and impairments, such as via rehabilitation programs and the provision of assistive equipment, may improve physical function, independence, and quality of life.
Conclusions
In conclusion, wearable devices, mobile applications, and virtual wellness programs to measure physical activity and monitor health indicators may enhance healthy ageing among the elderly. It may also give access to telemedicine treatments and online information to promote the physical and mental health and independence of the elderly. Companionship and social engagement may be provided by AI-powered robots to combat loneliness. At the same time, assistive technology such as smart home gadgets and wearable health monitoring devices can help manage health. Transportation services such as ride-sharing applications and G.P.S. monitoring may assist seniors in participating in social activities. It is feasible to employ technology to enhance the quality of life of ageing folks by applying these guidelines.
Recommendations
As a recommendation, it is essential to explore adoption tactics tailored to the elderly’s acceptance to ease the adoption of technology that maximizes healthy aging among the old. First, it is suggested to promote the use of wearable devices and mobile applications to measure physical activity, monitor health indicators, and send prescription reminders. According to Ahmed et al. (2022), promoting wearable devices may help seniors remain active and manage their health concerns better. In addition, technology may enhance social contacts and involvement in activities for older adults with restricted mobility or who live alone. Improved mobility may lessen emotions of isolation and loneliness.
The use of AI-powered robots to give elderly folks companionship, social engagement, and practical support, such as medicine reminders, is also suggested. These robots may contribute to the improvement of social ties and quality of life. Moreover, Eyster et al.,2022 state that virtual wellness programs and telemedicine platforms may give older folks remote access to healthcare services and assistance, especially for those with restricted mobility or who reside in rural locations. It is possible to use online resources and support to give knowledge and resources relevant to healthy ageing and to link older folks with support groups and other services.
The elderly may also be supplied with assistive technology, such as smart home gadgets and wearable health monitoring devices, to help them keep their independence and better manage their health. According to Eyster et al. (2022), transportation services such as ride-sharing applications and G.P.S. monitoring may offer senior citizens transportation, enabling them to preserve their freedom and engage in social activities. These guidelines seek to promote the physical and mental health of ageing persons and assist them in maintaining their independence and quality of life. By applying these guidelines, it is feasible to employ technology to improve the quality of life of the elderly by optimizing healthy ageing.
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