When people think of those glued to their phones, the image that comes to mind is usually young people. But individuals aged 60 and over are also becoming frequent smartphone users.frequent smartphone usersThe COVID-19 pandemic can be considered a significant factor in this process, leading to depressive episodes and increased anxiety, but there are also social aspects, such as maintaining connections with support networks and the loneliness of old age.Covid-19 pandemic"Nomophobia is directly linked to the fear of disconnection. Screen dependency, however, refers to the problematic use we often associate with excessive phone usage. It's not just about the fear of being disconnected to meet daily needs, but rather the uncontrolled use where the individual loses control over their device," she explains in a BdF Interview.
(No translation needed as it is already in English)
(No translation needed as it is already in English)(No translation needed as it is already in English)In this context, it is important to distinguish between the two concepts.
In this "more uncontrolled" scenario, we observe a picture of "feedback of loneliness". "The person starts to get involved too much via cell phone and loses the face-to-face part, those important exchanges, physical activity, when you produce substances that are beneficial to the body, that increase the feeling of pleasure, the desire to return to that event, to be in contact with other people," he assesses.
At this moment, according to Santos, the person ends up more susceptible to excessive cell phone use disorders and can become a victim of virtual crimes. Vulnerability to virtual frauds occurs because criminals act strategicallyon emotional vulnerabilities and the lack of digital experience of these people.About emotional fragility and the lack of digital experience among these individuals.
Renata Maria Silva Santos believes that one way to reduce these risks and promote a healthier relationship between the elderly and screens is to invest in digital literacy in a patient and structured way, ideally through public policies. According to the researcher, this will give autonomy to the elderly.
"Literacy, teaching, really showing how it works, how the person should proceed on different platforms, this is important, but without infantilizing, so that the elderly person really wants to learn, wants to seek knowledge," concludes the occupational therapist.
"Teaching, educating, really showing how it works, how the person should proceed on different platforms, this is important, but without making it childish, so that the elderly person truly wants to learn, wants to acquire knowledge," the occupational therapist concludes.
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TheBdF Interviewairs from Monday to Friday at 4 pm, onRadio Brasil de Fato98.9 FM in Greater São Paulo.