Seniors face some similar difficulties with technology, which can limit their daily lives. But the good news is you can help your senior clients when it comes to accessing their insurance needs, despite existing technological obstacles.
Read on to learn more about common technological hurdles for seniors and how to help, then reach out to us at American Senior Benefits for more information.
Common Technological Hurdles Seniors Face
Here are some of the common challenges seniors often have when it comes to new technology:
Lack of access to technology
One reason younger people are more skilled with new technology is that they grew up using computers, tablets, and mobile phones as part of their daily lives. But for generations who went through school and work without a computer or related technology, learning to use it later in life is more difficult. Having access to technology throughout life makes people comfortable using technology for many different purposes, but older adults did not benefit from technology in the same way, and this lack of access is a hurdle for some seniors.
Health conditions that make using technology challenging
Arthritic conditions can make using the hands for fine motor tasks a challenge, and poor eyesight can make it hard to read the print on smaller mobile devices. These health conditions, and other physical limitations, often make it more challenging for seniors to use technology.
Difficulty learning new technology
Many seniors lack confidence in their ability to learn new technology on their own. A Pew Research Center survey found that 77% of senior respondents felt they would need someone to walk them through new technology before they could use it. Moreover, this lack of confidence can be enough to keep seniors from asking for help or trying new technology, even when it can benefit them.
How To Help Seniors Overcome Technological Hurdles
You are in a good position as an agent to help your senior clients overcome these technical challenges. After all, you speak with your clients often and they already trust you, so you are able to help them find ways to beat these hurdles. Try these tips:
Talk with your clients. Ask them about their needs and how you can help. You may be surprised at their responses — and it could help you learn more about how to meet their desires.
Ask for communication preferences. Your clients may prefer to communicate over the phone or by email in some cases. Ask them if they would prefer you call with updates or send general correspondence via email or postal mail. Some people would rather receive everything in writing so they can file it for future reference, while others are comfortable logging into a digital portal to review communications.
Show your clients how to use digital features. Some clients may feel comfortable using technology, like a digital portal, once you show them how to use it. Take the time to walk your clients through their insurer’s website and customer portal so they understand how to log in and what they can do online. They may be pleasantly surprised to learn they can print ID cards, pay their bills, or chat with an agent directly, all from an online portal.
How Do I Learn More?
To learn more about common technological hurdles you can help your senior clients overcome, contact the experts at American Senior Benefits. Our licensed experts will be happy to answer any questions you have.
