TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) -- From Fit Bit to Facebook, experts say there are ways technology can help us age successfully.
"Technology doesn't have to be scary," said Dr. Lee Ryan with the University of Arizona. "It can be a very helpful thing as we get older."
Dr. Ryan is the head of the Psychology department is one of the speakers at the Annual Conference of Successful Aging. The conference features a number of professionals that will focus on ways technology can make the aging process easier.
It will be held Tuesday, March 1st from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the North Grand Ballroom at the Student Union Memorial Center at the University of Arizona. It costs $15 per person, and the community is welcome.
Back in 2000, 14% of people over the age of 65 went online every day. Ryan says now 60% are online every day, explaining that many of them have been using the Internet for 10, 15 years so they feel more comfortable than previous generations.
There are applications available like Fit Bit, that can help track your fitness and nutrition. Ryan says social media sites like Skype are crucial for seniors because it allows them to connect with family and friends without leaving the house.
"We know that staying connected, socially is very important," Ryan said. "It's actually more important than we ever imagined."
There are also other forms of technology, like Life Alert, that allow seniors to be independent but also safe.
"They can monitor when you take your medication, or if you haven't taken your medication," Ryan said. "They can monitor if you're oven has stayed on too long."
Here is a link to more information about the conference.
