Tablet Computers Can Help Seniors Learn New Skills

Tablet computers offer numerous benefits to users, from innovation apps to simple convenience, but seniors may have an even better reason to use them. Research from the University of Texas at Dallas' Center for Vital Longevity suggested that these mobile devices may be able to help older adults learn new skills and keep thinking clearly.

Training with tablets For the study, researchers divided 54 seniors between the ages of 60 and 90 into three groups tasked with either using an iPad, conversing or doing other activities such as working on word puzzles. Those in the iPad group were trained on how to operate the devices and then used them for a number of projects and daily actions. The conversation group met to discuss assigned topics and the third group, the placebo, worked on puzzles at home. All three groups took cognitive tests before and after the study.

Comparing the results of the three groups' tests, researchers found that those in the iPad group had significantly improved memory and ability to process information quickly. Specifically, they were better able to recall information about their past experiences and were faster at simple mental tasks. The improvements in this group were much greater than those seen in the other two.

Lifelong learning According to researchers, the key to the iPad group's success was that the device allowed them to acquire new skills. While engaging in conversation and completing puzzles had some benefit in enhancing cognition and recall, neither activity taught participants how to perform new tasks or how to complete familiar tasks in novel ways, as the iPad did.

Participants often used the tablet computer to access online banking and communicate with social media. These types of activities build skill both in using the iPad and in performing specific tasks. Researchers said that these skills were beneficial on their own, even when not accounting for the cognitive benefits that they provide.

Seniors' choice The iPad was chosen in part because of its accessibility for seniors, researchers said. Simply Seniors also reported on the device's benefits to older adults. Using a desktop or laptop computer for long periods of time can sometimes lead to problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome, due to the repetitive hand motions that people rely on. They can be even worse for people with arthritis, who may find keyboards and mice difficult to use without pain. However, iPads mostly avoid these problems thanks to their touch screens. Typing on a tablet requires much less force than typing on a keyboard, and a mouse isn't used with the device at all.

Tablets are often used by seniors for reading, according to the source. Since they feature adjustable fonts, they could make it easier for older adults to read without eye strain and in poor lighting. The devices don't weigh much, making them highly portable for seniors who want to read on the go without hauling around a stack of books or magazines.

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