Electronic Gifts for Elderly People
The Best Electronics for Seniors are Devices Simple to Operate
Nov 5, 2009
What kind of gift does one buy an elderly person for Christmas or a birthday? Why not choose an electronic gift for an aging family member? Grandpa might really go for a DVD player and a few of his favorite movies. A grandmother who loves music might get a real thrill out of an MP3 player that's already been loaded with favorite songs. Both elders might exercise to a video workout system. Make sure the gift is appropriate and user-friendly.
Choose Simple-to-Operate Electronics for Elderly People
Choosing the right electronic gift for an elderly person depends on several important details. Age is not a reliable way to measure ability. However, consider the following functions before choosing an electronic gift for an older person that may have limitations.
- Physical ability. Does the person have the finger dexterity and coordination to operate a small device like a mini MP3 player or would a larger unit be easier to manage?
- Senses. Does the user have poor eyesight or hearing that would make an MP3 player, camera, or other electronic device difficult to enjoy or impossible to use?
- Prosthetic devices. Does the person use a hearing aid? Electronics that work only with headphones may not make a suitable gift for the elderly person.
- Memory loss. Will the user be able to set up and operate the device without help and remember how to use it?
- Temperament due to illness or disease. Would music from a radio or boom box agitate the elderly person if he has Alzheimer's disease?
Considerations when Buying Cell Phones, Portable DVD Player or Digital Camera for Grandparents
The best electronics for an elderly person are those devices that are easy to read or view, and are not complicated to set up or operate.
Cell phones can be lifelines in an emergency and they give peace of mind to people who need to be in contact with each other. But consider this: There is no point in giving Grandpa an expensive cell phone that records video and has fifty nifty features if he can't figure out how to use the thing. A basic cell phone that only makes and receives phone calls is a more sensible choice. Other considerations include:
- Can the user afford the monthly contract payments or load the phone with additional minutes?
- Who is going to help manage the phone?
- Is the elderly person able to see and operate the small keypad?
Digital cameras make great Christmas or birthday gifts for elderly people. Taking pictures is not only a great hobby, but a camera provides an incentive for getting out and getting exercise. Ask these questions before buying a camera:
- How easy is it to operate the camera? Is it "point and shoot" or is the operation more complicated?
- How will the elderly person view the pictures? Does he have access to a computer that has an SD memory card slot, for example?
- Will someone faithfully print the pictures on a printer or camera dock, or take the memory card to a store camera department for printing the photos?
Portable DVD players are ideal gifts for elderly people who love to watch movies. Before purchasing, ask:
- Is the screen large enough for the elderly user to enjoy?
- Are the control buttons easy to figure out?
- Who will supply the movies for the unit?
Buying Computers, Camcorders and Video Game Systems for Seniors
Laptops, netbooks, and camcorders are pricey gifts. However, advanced electronics may not be suitable for the elderly person who is not computer literate. Netbooks may be too small, especially those that are not equipped with a full-size keyboard. Video gaming may take too much skill and concentration for some elderly persons.
Smaller is not more convenient when selecting an electronic device for an elderly person. Small things are easily misplaced or lost. Small units may have controls that are too small for the elderly person to see clearly.
Don't Depend on Caregivers to Help With Electronic Gifts for the Elderly
Caregivers have too much work to do as it is without something more to add to the workload. When selecting an electronic device for an aging loved one, make absolutely certain the user can operate the unit independently. If additional steps are involved, such as with downloading and/or printing pictures from a digital camera, then be certain there is someone other than the caregiver to cover the job.
DVD players, MP3 players, digital cameras, and even cell phones are just a few of the electronic gifts an elderly person might enjoy. Consider if the device is a suitable choice or not. An elderly person with trembling hands, stiff fingers, or poor eyesight may not be able to operate certain smaller electronic devices. The best electronics for an elderly person are those devices that are easy to operate. For best results, ask the caregiver if the electronic item would make a suitable gift for the elderly person.
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