Seniors Are Embracing Technology During Coronavirus
More seniors are embracing technology during the coronavirus pandemic. This is good news considering older adults are particularly vulnerable to the respiratory disease. While people of all ages can be infected by Covid-19 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 8 out of 10 deaths reported in the U.S. have been in adults 65 years old and older. Immunologists point to two main reasons for this susceptibility. First, seniors are more likely to suffer from pre-existing conditions that hinder the body’s ability to cope with and recover from illness, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. The second reason has to do with how our immune response changes with age, which researchers are still working to fully understand. The bottom line is, older folks need to stay home as much as possible during the coronavirus outbreak.
Video Solutions
Being quarantined, however, does not mean seniors should refrain from communicating with family, friends, doctors, therapists, or even their insurance agents. This is where technology can be a precious lifeline. Video chatting, for instance, can be used on a smartphone, iPad, or desktop computer. Software solutions include Zoom Meetings, Skype, FaceTime, GoTo Meeting and various telehealth apps. Simply download your application of choice to your device and begin communicating. Some may be familiar with using FaceTime to communicate with grandkids. Telehealth is no different as it allows you to speak to a doctor without an in-person visit. As of March 6, CMS also expanded Medicare telehealth services to fight COVID-19.
During this outbreak, many businesses are still effectively meeting remotely with clients. For instance, Empower Brokerage agents are available to video conference with Medicare recipients since meeting in person is not advised at this time. With an application like Zoom Meetings, it is easy to share a screen with multiple people from the safety of your home. This virtually eradicates unnecessary risk while meeting your agent face-to-face and getting your Medicare questions answered.
Medicare Questions?
As we continue on this quarantine journey, remember to keep your health at the forefront. If you are one of the 4 out of 10 seniors who own a smartphone, chances are good that you are probably tech-savvy enough to do a video call for all your appointments. So, instead of forgoing important meetings, communications, and social interactions, embrace the technology solutions we have available. If you have Medicare questions call Empower today. Let us help with your Medicare questions so you can get back to the activities you enjoy the most. 1-888-446-9157 or click here to get an INSTANT QUOTE