How to Help Seniors With Technology

We live in an incredible time. Being able to connect with someone face-to-face through the touch of a button, instantly sending messages using the sound of our voice and the feeling of being together when we're far apart make the benefits of technology hard to beat. With all of the new devices and programs in the industry today, it can be difficult to keep up, especially if you're not used to this new world. For seniors, technology can be an idea that's foreign and seemingly impossible to embrace. Here are our tips on how to help seniors with technology.

Step-By-Step Guidance

Since much of the technology that we use today wasn't available for most of a senior's life, the whole concept can appear alien, but with a little guidance, you can show them that technology is pretty remarkable. An effective way to help seniors grasp various aspects of technology is to lead them through it step-by-step. Introduce them to the different tech tools and programs, such as:

·       Laptops & computers

·       Smartphones

·       Tablets & iPads

·       Apps

·       Cameras

Let them see these tools in action. Take a moment to show them that there's nothing to be afraid of, starting slowly and building their knowledge as you go. Most of all, be there to answer any questions. Knowing that there's a resource there to teach them can mean a world of difference.

Tailoring Technology to Seniors

Often times, technology needs to be tailored to our individual needs at any age. Some seniors may have difficulty seeing or hearing and when it comes to tech devices, this can pose a problem. This can be fixed by changing the font size to a bigger option or the ringer to a louder volume. Making these simple fixes can help seniors adapt to technology with ease. There are also devices and resources on the market that are designed with seniors in mind. Taking a look into these options can be beneficial.

Keeping a Positive Outlook

Technology can be frustrating for anyone, not just seniors. As a whole, we're all learning new things as technology constantly evolves. Stay positive if you're helping someone who's not too familiar with technology as they figure it out. Remember, you had to learn it all once too. Take breaks, have fun and learn together. Find an app that you're both interested in and learn how to use it or try out your new camera together.

Technology is Important

As we continue to rely more and more on technology, it ends up being a big part of our everyday lives. Technology helps us stay connected and safe. It's important for seniors to be able to learn about technology and become more comfortable with it. You never know when it will come in handy. Take time together to learn and grow with the ever-changing trends in the world of technology. Not only will you become more knowledgeable, you'll have fun too.