Smartphones are viewed as the root cause of a “loneliness epidemic” or a “mental health crisis” but research has found that they can actually enable the older generation to stay connected with their family and friends, and provide a sense of independence in their own lives.
"Generation Anxiety," "a mental health crisis," "a loneliness epidemic"—smartphones are often blamed for the growing social and mental health challenges faced by modern society. They’re criticized for disconnecting people from the real world and inhibiting social interaction. And it’s not just young people glued to their screens. A survey of secondary school children found that 82% of them felt their parents' smartphone use was negatively impacting family life. As a society, it seems we’re becoming increasingly distant and disconnected.
But in our rush to blame technology for the disconnectedness plaguing modern life, we may be overlooking a crucial counterbalance. For those who live apart from their loved ones, often the older generation, embracing technology can connect them with family and friends.
