The Internet can improve depression in senior citizens

New research shows dramatic improvement to an elderly person's mental well being by expanding their circle of friends. Research carried out by the Phoenix Center proves that the internet can decrease depression in senior citizens.

The internet is used by many people all over the world, but now specialists at the Phoenix Center report that the internet has essential benefits for elderly people. In a paper that was released by the Phoenix Center it documents how using the internet eases depression by 20 percent in elderly people. Not only does the internet help senior citizens fight depression it also reduces the nation's health care expenses. Many senior citizens have problems getting out and about. Consequently they don't have good social lives and this impacts them in a negative manner. By using the internet it opens a window to the outside world and allows the elderly to meet new friends without leaving their homes. The internet allows the elderly to develop a hobby that helps their emotional well being. Reports showed a dramatic improvement in the mood of people who were 55 and over. Usual surveys only study a small proportion of people that fit into the category of 55 or under, but this survey also took reports of people who were over 55. The results from the survey are extremely useful since health care costs of Americans aged 55 or older can average around $100 million a year. The cost is made up of medical expenses, suicide and mortality, and employment expenses. Despite the fact that the internet has major health benefits to the elderly The Pew Internet & American Life Project reported that as few as 42 percent of American residents aged 65 or more used the internet. Many elderly people are too afraid of technology and don't understand how to use the computer. In view of the massive health benefits to the elderly who use the internet it would be a good idea to offer individual lessons to help those who are elderly use the internet. A basic plan that helps an elderly start up an internet system in their home and understand the basics would be beneficial not only to the individual but, also to the nation's expenses.