Technology to help you stay independent

How technology can help you

The internet helps us connect with people, access information and do daily tasks, all from your home, at any time.

Technology has been developing fast, and the digital revolution has transformed our lives. This may seem a bit daunting at first, but with just a little knowledge and practice, you’ll find that these new devices can make your life easier, keep you independent and safe.

When used safely, technology and the internet can make a huge difference to your life. It can keep you in contact with your loved ones, it can give you new life experiences, it can make day to day tasks easier and give you more time to do the things you really enjoy.

Technology can help with: 

• Online shopping
• Keeping up to date with the news and weather
• Keeping in touch with people
• Keeping in touch with professionals
• Improve your health and wellbeing
• Enjoying a range of entertainment, such as films, music and radio

Technology in your home

There have been huge leaps forward in technology in your own home that can keep you independent, help you live the life you choose and keep you safe. These range from the very simple, such as big contact buttons or fall detectors, to fully-integrated care systems with a wide range of sensors and safety features.

There are lots of different devices to help you – some are wearable, some are based in the home and some you can take out with you. Many care agencies already have a technology package of gadgets and sensors and can install them and show you and your relatives how to use them.

Where can I get more information and advice

Even people who have been using technology for years need a little help sometimes and there are plenty of ways to get this support:

• Ask your friends and family, especially younger family members. You might be surprised at how much they know and they would be happy to share their knowledge with you.
• Go to your local library. Many of them run short courses on using your smartphones and tablets. They may also have books that can help.
• Age UK Richmond offers regular workshops and computer drop-in sessions in the borough.
• Local community colleges often run evening and weekend courses on using smartphones and tablets.

Contact

Adult Social Care and Public Health
Civic Centre
44 York Street
Twickenham
TW1 3BZ

Email: adultsocialservices@richmond.gov.uk
Telephone: 020 8891 7971 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)