Tech Savvy: A Park Place Seniors Living Beginners Guide to Using Technology to Stay Connected
February 7, 2025 | By Park Place Seniors Living |
In today’s digital world, technology has become an essential tool for staying connected with family and friends, accessing important information, and enhancing daily life. While some seniors may feel hesitant about using smartphones, tablets, or other digital devices, learning to navigate technology can be easier than expected. At Park Place Seniors Living, we encourage residents to embrace technology as a way to maintain strong social connections and enjoy greater independence.
The Importance of Staying Connected Through Technology
Maintaining relationships and social interactions is crucial for emotional well-being, especially for seniors who may have loved ones living in different cities or provinces. Smartphones, tablets, and computers allow seniors to communicate instantly through video calls, messaging apps, and social media platforms.
Technology can also provide access to entertainment, news, and resources that support an active and engaged lifestyle. Whether it’s reading digital books, watching educational videos, or participating in virtual events, these tools help seniors stay informed and connected with the world around them.
Choosing the Right Device
For beginners, selecting the right device is the first step to feeling comfortable with technology. Here are some options to consider:
- Smartphones: A great option for calling, texting, and using apps. Many modern smartphones have user-friendly features such as voice commands and larger text display settings.
- Tablets: These devices offer larger screens than smartphones, making them easier to navigate. Tablets are ideal for video calls, browsing the internet, and reading digital content.
- Laptops & Desktop Computers: While less portable, computers offer full-sized keyboards and screens, which can be beneficial for those who prefer traditional setups for emailing, online shopping, and research.
Many senior-friendly devices are designed with simplified interfaces, large icons, and accessibility features such as voice assistants and magnification tools, making them easier to use.
Essential Apps for Seniors
Once a device is set up, downloading the right apps can make digital communication and entertainment more accessible. Some of the most useful apps for seniors include:
- Video Calling: FaceTime (for Apple users), Zoom, Skype, and WhatsApp allow seniors to have face-to-face conversations with loved ones.
- Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage offer simple ways to send text messages, voice recordings, and photos.
- Social Media: Facebook and Instagram allow seniors to stay updated with family news, share memories, and interact with friends.
- Health & Wellness Apps: MyChart and Medisafe help seniors manage medications, appointments, and personal health records.
- Entertainment & Learning: YouTube offers free videos on any topic of interest, while apps like Kindle and Libby provide access to digital books.
Tips for Navigating Technology with Confidence
Learning a new skill takes time, but with a little patience and practice, using technology can become second nature. Here are some beginner-friendly tips for getting started:
- Start with the Basics – Focus on learning essential functions such as making phone calls, sending texts, and using video calls before exploring more advanced features.
- Use Voice Commands – Many devices come with built-in voice assistants (such as Siri or Google Assistant) that can help with tasks like sending messages or setting reminders.
- Adjust Accessibility Settings – Increase text size, use high-contrast mode, or enable closed captions to make devices more user-friendly.
- Stay Safe Online – Avoid scams by never sharing personal information with unknown contacts and using strong passwords for online accounts.
- Ask for Help – Many retirement residences, including those in the Park Place Seniors Living network, have staff who are able to assistance seniors, allowing them learn at their own pace. Local libraries and community centers often offer a variety of workshops specifically designed to help those with areas such as introduction to technology, senior fraud prevention (in person and online), and more.
How Park Place Seniors Living Supports Digital Inclusion
At Park Place Seniors Living, we recognize the value of staying connected through technology. Many of our senior communities offer Wi-Fi access and even our staff can help assist residents with navigating their devices to give them the confidence to use those devices with ease. Whether it’s setting up a video call with family or exploring new apps, we’re here to support our residents in embracing the digital world.
If you or a loved one is considering a senior living community that promotes engagement, connection, and independence, we invite you to explore our residences. Contact us today to learn more about Park Place Seniors Living and book a tour at one of our welcoming retirement communities.
