OUTSIDE THE BOX
Giving Seniors the Tools and Support to Embrace Technology
by Michelle Fitzhugh-Craig
For some, the idiom “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” speaks ill of those who are, let’s say, mature in age. Because I am one of those mature individuals, I visited Merriam-Webster to find out a little more about the phrase. I had to chuckle when I read the dictionary’s example of its use: “I tried to get my mother to start using a computer, but she says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” That couldn’t be further from the truth for me and many people I know who are edging toward or living in their golden years. But because I am a proud member of the 60-plus club and have an intimate relationship with technology, I am constantly being asked by my peers how I am so comfortable with computers, the internet, social media, and more. Too many tell me that they can’t jump on the tech train because they are too old. I quickly correct them, saying, “No, the issue is that you’re too afraid.”
It can be intimidating for an older adult to dive into a new skill, language, or the world of technology for the first time. It’s not about being unable to learn; it’s about not having the right information and support to take on a diverse mix of critical tools that are used—in one way or another—in just about everything we do in our lives. Most older people I’ve talked to about this topic are comfortable with basic technology—cellphones, cars, appliances, and simple computer work, to name a few. But when I introduce software, platforms, and apps, their brains do what mine does when I hear the word “math”: It freezes.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an inevitable surge in the use of digital technologies due to the social distancing norms and nationwide lockdowns,” notes a 2020 article abstract from the International Journal of Information Management. I have found that there has been less of a resistance to learning during the past few years; however, many people aren’t sure where to begin (or how to continue) their technological journey. Here are some suggestions for yourself or for you to help a friend or loved one, keeping the needs of seniors in mind.
INTRODUCTION
ORGANIZATIONS
If you’re age 50 or older, belonging to AARP is a must. An annual membership is as low as $16 for one-to-two adults in your household. It provides a great technology resource page that covers everything from the basics to the latest big thing, including AI. News, articles, videos, and more are sure to make anyone feel more comfortable adapting to an interconnected age.
The inspiration for the Cyber-Seniors website comes from two high schoolers who witnessed firsthand the challenges and then successes their grandparents experienced before and after learning to use the internet. The project was turned into an award-winning documentary film, which has been broadcast in 40 countries and screened in more than 500 communities globally. Today, the site offers free tech training and support for seniors and is run by tech-savvy student volunteers who care about bridging intergenerational divides.
SOCIAL MEDIA
One of the best ways to learn how to navigate the world of social media is to reach out to a grandchild, niece or nephew, or anyone in Gens X, Y, or Z. Now, I’m not saying they are smarter, but they have a no-fear attitude when it comes to embracing technology, and every young person I have met is excited about passing on their knowledge.
One of the best places to start with social media are platforms that focus on connections between family members, as well as old and new friends. The easiest to navigate are Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The latter—a texting app—uses end-to-end encryption that allows secure cross-device and cross-platform communication.
The online video-sharing and social media platform YouTube, which was once thought of as an entertainment-only site, has become a great way to learn how to do just about anything. Just type a topic or keyword into the search bar, and you’ll find a video that can help you enhance what you already know or teach you something new, including how to navigate the Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp apps.
FREE EDUCATION
I am a firm believer in lifelong learning. Thanks to the increase in older adults taking to technology, there are a variety of free online courses designed especially for the senior student. Check out WalletGenius’ list of classes for learning new skills and the StoryPoint Group’s explainer on the benefits of online learning—plus, its list of best courses—for some great offers.
APPS
According to the FDA, about 50% of prescriptions filled are not taken as directed by a doctor or pharmacist. The free Medisafe app, available for both iOS and Android users, will help you to manage your medications, so that you take them and refill them on time.
A favorite among free map app choices is Google Maps, which is available for both Android and iOS users. It has a feature that allows you to mark where you parked when you leave your vehicle. Upon departing, click the blue dot that shows your current location and set it as your parking location. When you’re ready to return to your car, just click on the Directions icon and choose the Saved parking option. Actually, this is a great feature for all ages.
The more you use the internet, the more you’ll realize the need to remember security logins and passwords. Finding one safe place to keep them all can be a challenge, because every site you use should have a unique password. LastPass is that safe place, and it is easy to navigate on smartphones and desktops via the free app or the free browser extension, respectively.
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MICHELLE FITZHUGH-CRAIG is an award-winning journalist who is the owner of MFC3 Media (