High-tech gift ideas can delight the elderly, help with their day to day and connect them to loved ones.

The global village’s latest high-tech gadgets are not just the playthings of the young. The young at heart can also be captivated and entertained by new technology, and some of it is actually quite age appropriate. Best of all, the latest touch-screen devices, like Apple’s iPad, also double as powerful tools. Their dead-simple, ease-of-use means that they can help seniors overcome some of aging’s mounting obstacles.

When considering a high-tech gift for a senior this holiday season, think about how it could help your loved one with one of their daily challenges.

Can they hear you now?

One common health issue that seems to plague most of the aging population is their failing sense of hearing. If they miss most parts of the shows they watch, this can lead to frustration, boredom and increased isolation. Give them back the gift of hearing with earphones which they can use for watching TV. Read up on this blog to find the best one.

What time is it, dear?

A simple gift that can make a big difference is a talking clock. We all want to know the answer to the eternal question: “What time is it?”. If our vision is impaired or our ability to read a clock is gone, having a clock that will tell you the time can be a real life saver.

Don’t click, just poke.

The choices are endless when we think of tablet computers these days. My personal favorite is the iPad: it’s easy to use, has a crisp display, and is incredibly multipurpose, from reading and socializing, to gaming, and staying up to date on current events.

Combined with an Internet connection, a new generation touch-screen device is not unlike giving a senior a hand-held, interactive window, allowing them access to places, news, stories and events from the outside world. With video conference calls, they’ll feel closer and more connected with their loved ones, especially when mobility and geography are issues. Give them access to the entire world, at their fingertips.

I’m a book person.

Simpler tablets, the Kindle or Nook may be good hand-held options as well. Make a list of what your loved one will use the tablet for the most and gear your purchase toward those features.

For seniors with an extensive library of actual books, the splurge item this holiday season may be  Merlin’s Desktop Electronic Magnifier, a device that magnifies books or documents onto a LCD screen. For those who were avid readers or enjoyed viewing family photo albums, the Merlin Magnifier makes it all possible again. Reading and turning the pages of a book is such a simple, eternal pleasure and one that seniors especially enjoy.

Much of today’s technology for seniors often involves machines for monitoring their heath. Luckily, that’s changing. Remember, technology is fun for all ages and anyone can learn to use it in this day and age, in particular with this latest generation of ultra-user-friendly multi-purpose gadgets.

Remember, the gift of technology will not alone suffice: invest time and reconnect to your loved ones by teaching them how to use it and then get access to a whole new world, at the touch of a button.