Seniors keep pace with the times through experiencing new technology
Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is conducting a number of research studies that incorporate new technologies, with senior citizens being their target group. Hence, NTU approached Tzu Chi SEEN centres to participate in the testing and research. Seniors have also gained plenty in the process, with a door to new technologies opened for them.
Senior: This is my first time watching.
Senior: As I learn, I get angry.
Senior: Not bad, very fun.
What is it that makes the seniors love yet hate it? The answer is new technology.
Singapore's Nanyang Technological University brought its research products from the new technology projects to Tzu Chi SEEN centres for testing.
Seniors learn to use ATMs through virtual reality technology.
Besides entertainment, they can also do simple sports.
Chia Bing Xun, NTU Research Assistant: Technologies are constantly evolving and changing. People are living longer, but we are not just looking at living longer, but we are also looking at ageing healthily and actively in the community.
Under the guidance of the researchers, although they are relatively unfamiliar with the new technology, the seniors are able to successfully complete the tasks.
Tan Been Teen, Participant: The boxing activity is more intense, so it makes me a little breathless.
Agnes Chua, Fitness Associate, SEEN: Some seniors may say "I don't know, I don't know this". We have to encourage them and explain to them how to use or operate.
Ng Siew Geok, Participant: I do not detest it. You should not have a mentality of fear. Society is progressing, and if there are new things, we can try to understand them.
Grandpa Tan, who had a stroke 5 years ago, enjoys it even though it is a little inconvenient for him to move.
Tan Kim Chye, Participant: I would be nervous if I haven't done it before, but the second time was fine. Playing games allows me to exercise, if I do not move, my hands and feet would become “rusty”.
Ariffin NTU Research Fellow: We were pleasantly surprised by the seniors in Tzu Chi, that’s the key finding we found, that they can adapt with the technology, there is a great acceptance from the seniors.
Keeping up with the times and stepping out of the comfort zone to try new things is also one of the ways to stay active.
