In the race towards technological advancements, we often highlight the efficiencies and convenience that come with digital innovations. We cheer the arrival of AI, smart homes, and automated systems designed to streamline our lives. But there’s a stark observation I’ve made recently, as these tools are being adopted to improve daily living, they are inadvertently complicating the lives of our parents.
We live in an era where technology is reshaping everything, from how we work to how we interact, but for many of our elderly parents, these innovations are more of a hindrance than a help. While we embrace new gadgets and systems with excitement, we must pause and reflect: Are we making their lives easier, or just more complicated?
The Hidden Complexity Behind Convenience
Recently, my family experienced firsthand how seemingly simple tech upgrades can disrupt the calm, predictable lives of elderly parents. When our local cable vendor closed his shop, we bought a smart Android TV and a TV set-top box to replace it. At first, it felt like a great idea as a move toward modernity and a leap into the future. But as we set up the new system, I quickly realised that what was supposed to be a seamless transition was actually creating confusion.
Instead of one remote control, there were two, one for the TV, the other for the box. Both were minimalist in design, sleek, and filled with tiny buttons. But the complexity they added to a simple task was overwhelming. My parents, who had spent years navigating the old system with ease, now faced a maze of options, settings, and commands. He asked, “Why two remotes for one TV?” And I had no clear answer.
We take for granted that we, as younger generations, can easily adapt to these changes. But our parents, who grew up with simpler systems, are suddenly thrust into a world of cryptic symbols, apps, and constant updates. They’re expected to be able to make sense of it all, without the familiarity or training we might have received growing up in a world of rapid digital change.
A Ripple Effect Across the Home
This wasn’t just about TV. Over the past few months, similar disruptions have unfolded in other areas of the home. We bought a new washing machine, but this one didn’t come with a simple dial or buttons. Instead, it was equipped with a control panel full of icons and symbols, with no manual in sight, only a website to visit for support. My parents, who were managing household for decades, now finds themselves helpless in front of the many household machines, unable to operate it without assistance. They now waits for someone to return home to take care of it.
Instead of offering clear guidance or simple notifications, many machines/gadgets sends app alerts, which are easy to overlook or misunderstand. These disruptions might seem small, but when added together, they form a significant burden. Every new tech update is another hurdle in a world that was once peaceful and predictable for our parents.
The Silent Crisis of Technological Disconnect
What happens when our parents no longer have their children or relatives around to help?
What if their kids are living abroad, working in another city, or simply too busy with their own lives to provide support?
The reality is that many elderly people today face a world where technology isn’t just a tool , “ITS A BARRIER”. They’re often left isolated, unable to access the services and features that are supposed to improve their quality of life. Where once they had a simple TV remote or washing machine dial, they now find themselves struggling with unfamiliar apps, cryptic interfaces, and increasingly complex devices. The very technology designed to make life more convenient has turned into an obstacle, and no one is stepping in to address this gap.
Is This the Progress We Envisioned?
As someone who believed extensively about tech, AI, and the interventions that are shaping our future, I’ve come to realise that these innovations often fail to consider the needs of the elderly. We are quick to celebrate the latest advancements, but we overlook the impact they have on those who didn’t grow up with smartphones, smart homes, or AI-driven assistants.
We live in an age where progress is measured by speed and efficiency. But true progress should also be measured by “accessibility” ensuring that every generation can comfortably participate in the digital world.
Have we considered the elderly? Have we made sure that the new world we’re building is one they can navigate without feeling left behind?
What Can We Do to Bridge the Gap?
Design with Simplicity in Mind: The next generation of smart devices should be intuitive, easy to understand, and not overly reliant on apps or web-based troubleshooting. Senior-friendly modes with large fonts and simple icons could go a long way in bridging the digital divide.
Provide Comprehensive Manuals and Support: Don’t just provide QR codes or ask customers to visit a website. Print clear, simple manuals and offer in-person or over-the-phone support for those who need it.
Make Technology Human-Centered: A balance between innovation and usability is needed. Technology should not just be sleek and efficient; it should also be accessible to those who didn’t grow up with it.
Encourage Digital Literacy for Seniors: We need programs that help older adults learn how to navigate today’s tech. It could be something as simple as local tech support groups or online workshops dedicated to senior citizens.
Be Patient and Compassionate: As younger generations, we should offer our patience and time to walk our parents through these digital transitions, instead of expecting them to “just figure it out.”
Conclusion: Rethinking Progress
As we forge ahead into this digital age, we must ask ourselves: Are we really making life better for everyone, or are we complicating it for those who need peace the most?
Technology should bring ease, not frustration. It should enhance lives, not add barriers. It’s time for us to reflect on how we can use innovation to bridge gaps, not create new divides.
True progress is about building a world that works for everyone, not just the tech-savvy or the young. And that means ensuring our parents and grandparents aren’t left behind in the race towards the future.
Because, in the end, the future isn’t truly “smart” if it leaves people behind. Let’s make sure that when we build tomorrow, we build it for everyone, no matter their age.
