Lockdown does not have to mean Isolation & Loneliness
Whilst we’re locked in our homes waiting for the coronavirus to pass by, it’s safe to say that most of us are missing social contact. However, whilst many have embraced a new digital form of social interaction, for the older demographic (with limited technological capability) this virtual experience is largely beyond reach.
Seniors are feeling more isolated than ever, and we know that those who do not feel sufficiently connected to others and are deprived of social contact are more likely to have weaker immune systems, develop dementia, cardiovascular disease and ultimately live shorter lives. (Age UK)
BBC News reports that nearly a fifth of the UK population has no access to a smartphone or laptop. "The assumption that we've all got smartphones and we've all got laptops is just not true and that can leave behind a lot of older people," said Daniel Pattison from The Campaign to End Loneliness. That means most seniors do not have access to the social platforms (such as Facebook, WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype and Zoom) that have become newfound lifelines to us during this pandemic.
So, how can we close the digital divide? One solution has been put forward by Ramblegard.
Their product, Ramblegardhome is an attempt to bridge the technology gap with an integrated tablet and docking system, pre-loaded with an extra-easy-to-use piece of software that is safe and secure. Designed for the elderly user, no login or password is required, and its basic function allows for easy navigation. Early adoption of this technology is also aided by features such as large text, colourful icons and profile pictures. There is even an optional auto-answer feature which allows a loved-one to drop-in without the elderly person having to touch a button. Unlike other video-calling platforms, this software provides protection from scams, unauthorised pop-ups and unwanted alerts.
Video-calling is not a new technology however, other providers require separate accounts to be set-up; Ramblegardhome comes preconfigured and is ready-to-use out of the box. Facebook Portal, Google Home Hub and Amazon Echo also all rely on good broadband connection; Ramblegardhome comes with a 4G sim as standard.
No one wants to see our most vulnerable decline in physical health and wellbeing on our watch. We know that technology cannot replace the feeling of communicating in person, but we believe that video-calls can make a real difference, and that this device is accessible, even for the most technologically challenged. For more information head to www.ramblegardhome.com.