Technology for Seniors: 4 Tips for Teaching Older Adults

Technology for seniors can enrich the lives of older adults in many ways, but teaching seniors can be challenging.  Many seniors are intimidated by computers and concerned about costs. In addition to seniors’ hesitations, offering technology training can be time consuming. The following strategies can help you address some of the most common challenges associated with teaching seniors technology.

If computers intimidate seniors, focus on mobile.

Mobile computing is more user-friendly and intuitive than point-and-click desktop operating systems. You touch the screen to select items. When you slide your finger, there is the illusion of objects moving on the screen. These types of direct interactions make learning how to control the device much easier for new adopters. Additionally, mobile devices offer a simplified interface—there’s only one app open at a time.There are also various options for accessibility: larger font, custom backlighting, voice commands, specialized styluses, and even compatibility with hearing aids.

If seniors are not interested in using technology, make it relevant.

The other advantage to the mobile platform is the variety of apps. Focus on the basics and then encourage people to adopt personally relevant apps.

If you need a helping hand, leverage inter-generational volunteers.

Tablets are great tools for facilitating intergenerational bonding and reciprocal learning. Pursue opportunities to collaborate with local colleges, high schools, and volunteer organizations that aim to help young people connect with elders.Prompt the students to socialize with seniors so they can more effectively help them discover what activities they enjoy on the iPad.

If your seniors are concerned about costs, save money with refurbished tablets.

Top technology companies are constantly releasing updated tablets and smartphones. After new models hit the market, you can buy existing models for substantially less than the latest and greatest.For example, every year, Apple releases at least one new iPad that’s faster, lighter, higher resolution, etc. They have released 10 iPads since its debut in 2010!A budget-friendly pick for a new learner is the 2013 4th generation iPad; it originally sold starting at $500 and now certified refurbished models sell for nearly half the original price. Source:  Senior Living Smarthttp://seniorlivingsmart.com/technology-for-seniors-tips-for-teaching-older adults/?utm_campaign=SmartNews&utm_content=31965980&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedinPicture from AlexKingCreative on Pixabay