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Caregivers Help Keep Elderly Connected

LIVONIA (WWJ) - It's the season for families to stay connected -- and seniors are doing just that thanks to one local organization aiming to make life just a little easier.

WWJ's Kathryn Larson caught up with 86-year-old Livonia resident Ann David, who said having someone watch over her is a blessing.

"That's the only way to live, I mean you can't sit within yourself and talk to yourself all day long. That's kind of boring," said David.

And boring David is not -- her Senior Helpers Caregiver keeps the Metro Detroit native on the ball.

"The silly big ball is a great exercise because when she's throwing it to me, what do I tell you, the blood is feeding your muscles every time you throw that, you are feeding your muscles, it is a healthy, good thing,' said Robbie Lenardo, David's caregiver.

Once David is warmed up, it's time to sit down at the computer and spend some time online -- something David said she can't live without.

"It absolutely is in this day and age. You have to have one or the use of one or you can't survive, you know, if you want to look anything up or do something, that's the easiest way I guess," said David.

An extra hand really helps out this holiday season, especially for people like David who have arthritis. Having a caregiver can help her get online and stay connected. David said she likes to shop online at her favorite site, Macy's, email family pictures and make Christmas cards.

And David isn't alone. Nationwide- Neilson Marketing reports more than 55 percent of seniors are now using the Internet.

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