At no point in human history would life under lockdown be as comfortable as this year’s global coronavirus pandemic because of technological progress and advancements.
People are now connected online to the world in every way possible while
social-distancing.
According to a March 25 article from the Cato Institute, a public policy research organization, social distancing without current technology would have meant complete isolation for previous generations.
Technology has made social distancing bearable with online communication. People can now attend work, school, doctor appointments and socialize all through the comfort of their own home.
Society wouldn’t have been this fortunate before the invention of computers and the internet.
Students have continued to receive education through remote learning and although it’s not comparable to in-person education, the internet has prevented learning gaps.
Students would have been without education for months if not for technology. Not only have work and school been made more accessible, but also medical care.
Doctor appointments through Zoom and other teleconference providers have helped patients with pre-existing conditions and other ailments continue to see their health care professionals, without risking coronavirus infection.
Patients now have the technology to communicate their symptoms to doctors online, helping them get diagnosed and receive prescriptions from the safety of their home.
According to a March 11 New York Times article, patients are able to receive guidance on coronavirus testing using their phone or computer.
Those who are immunocompromised and at high risk for COVID-19 can substitute a trip to the doctor’s office with an online visit while avoiding infection.
Although restaurant dining is limited because of closures and reduced hours under local and state mandates, individuals can still order food through apps including DoorDash and Postmates which offer contactless delivery options.
This has helped people who are immunocompromised and fearful of unsafe restaurant sanitation measures enjoy the luxury of the same foods from home.
Fitness center closures have also disappointed many gym rats, but they have the ability to engage in online exercise videos on TV, fitness apps and websites like YouTube.
According to an article on the University of Michigan’s medical center website, regular physical activity is shown to boost and strengthen the immune system along with reducing substance abuse.
People can still maintain good health and fitness with the aid of technology. We can also easily check on our loved ones and help prevent depressive thoughts and symptoms.
The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us in many ways, but technology has been a great help for people to have a sense of normalcy through such a strenuous situation.
