Baby boomers are catching up with the millennials and generation Z. Older generations have begun to embrace digital life as it continues to grow and evolve. The use of technology holds large numbers and the adaptation is spreading. The friendly connection that is spreading between technology and human interaction is amazing because virtuality is becoming a reality. The same power a hug holds when you touch the person that you love, the same energy and happiness can be transpired through digital media. Why write or call grandma when you can Facetime or poke her on Facebook? The access to digital literacy and learning the ins and outs of technology helps to improve relationships plus the distance will never be a problem. According to Pew Research, technology use among seniors are using various technologies at rates similar to adults under the age of 65.
Growing up Brittney Bogues, spent a lot of time visiting her great aunt Katherine in the nursing home with her grandmother. From that experience, she saw how lonely and isolated residents could become in nursing homes and after showing her grandmother how to text and video message she saw the power of technology partnered with a human touch. This sparked the passion behind ‘Give hugs & tech bugs’ based on the principle of a good hug and technology changing lives. Brittney Bogues has used her technical skills to inspire and teach the elder community with the use of cell phones, laptops/computers, and new popular social media apps to connect with their interests and family. This way they get the best of both worlds through hugs and technology. This once a month community service project has not only touched the lives of the residents but Brittney and her friends that join. This project also revealed the true power behind a hug, here are the top 5 benefits of a hug
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Hugging decreases chances of illness
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Improves Heart Health
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Increases Happiness
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Decreases depression and Anxiety
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Hugging is good for your relationship