1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:13,680 Hello and welcome back to The Padded Room. 2 00:00:13,680 --> 00:00:21,520 I'm Margo and I'm here with Wayne and this is Talking Tech with Wayne, the podcast dedicated 3 00:00:21,520 --> 00:00:28,520 to discussing smartphones, smart homes and all those things in between. 4 00:00:28,520 --> 00:00:36,680 This show is a promise of information freely given to all that seek it and that is a pack 5 00:00:36,680 --> 00:00:40,160 between us and all of you. 6 00:00:40,160 --> 00:00:45,800 Please log into our website and click the Join the Discussion button do well join the 7 00:00:45,800 --> 00:00:47,300 discussion. 8 00:00:47,300 --> 00:00:53,760 While you are there check out TV shows or click the Schedule a Call button. 9 00:00:53,760 --> 00:00:59,120 If you are interested in exploring how to bring a Talking Tech discussion group to your 10 00:00:59,120 --> 00:01:01,760 local church or community center. 11 00:01:01,760 --> 00:01:09,280 We also have a helpline where trained technicians are ready to answer your questions 24-7 and 12 00:01:09,280 --> 00:01:13,280 best of all it's 100% free. 13 00:01:13,280 --> 00:01:18,320 That number is 215-406-HELP. 14 00:01:18,320 --> 00:01:25,200 That's 215-406-4357. 15 00:01:25,200 --> 00:01:30,760 Today we will be talking about how seniors can get started with technology. 16 00:01:30,760 --> 00:01:37,320 In today's world technology has become an essential part of our lives and it's essential 17 00:01:37,320 --> 00:01:42,880 to understand how it works especially for seniors. 18 00:01:42,880 --> 00:01:48,600 Today we will be discussing some of the basics of technology that seniors can use in their 19 00:01:48,600 --> 00:01:50,160 daily lives. 20 00:01:50,160 --> 00:01:52,760 So let's start with the basics. 21 00:01:52,760 --> 00:01:57,160 Wayne can you tell us what technology is? 22 00:01:57,160 --> 00:02:05,360 Sure, technology refers to any tool or device that makes our lives easier or more efficient. 23 00:02:05,360 --> 00:02:12,840 It includes computers, smartphones, tablets and any other digital device. 24 00:02:12,840 --> 00:02:17,680 What are some of the benefits of technology for seniors? 25 00:02:17,680 --> 00:02:20,880 There are several benefits of technology for seniors. 26 00:02:20,880 --> 00:02:25,840 It helps them stay connected with their families and friends, keeps them informed about news 27 00:02:25,840 --> 00:02:31,840 and events and help them manage their health and medication. 28 00:02:31,840 --> 00:02:33,360 That's great to hear. 29 00:02:33,360 --> 00:02:39,720 Wayne can you tell us some specific examples of how seniors can use technology? 30 00:02:39,720 --> 00:02:47,000 Sure, for example, seniors can use a smartphone to make phone calls, send text messages and 31 00:02:47,000 --> 00:02:50,280 video chat with families and friends. 32 00:02:50,280 --> 00:02:58,080 They can also use a tablet or computer to access the internet, read books or watch movies. 33 00:02:58,080 --> 00:03:04,680 Technology can also help seniors manage their health by using apps to track their medications, 34 00:03:04,680 --> 00:03:10,240 monitor their blood pressure and even schedule doctor's appointments. 35 00:03:10,240 --> 00:03:12,320 Those are some great examples. 36 00:03:12,320 --> 00:03:17,360 What are some of the challenges that seniors may face when using technology? 37 00:03:17,360 --> 00:03:24,600 Well, some may face some challenges when using technology such as difficulty with typing 38 00:03:24,600 --> 00:03:31,640 or using a mouse, trouble seeing or hearing and not knowing how to use a device or an 39 00:03:31,640 --> 00:03:32,640 app. 40 00:03:32,640 --> 00:03:39,440 There are several ways to overcome these challenges such as using a larger screen or text size, 41 00:03:39,440 --> 00:03:48,240 using voice activated assistance or taking a class to learn how to use the device. 42 00:03:48,240 --> 00:03:49,760 That's good to know. 43 00:03:49,760 --> 00:03:55,360 Are there any specific devices or apps that you would recommend for seniors? 44 00:03:55,360 --> 00:04:01,440 Yes, there are several devices and apps that are specifically designed for seniors. 45 00:04:01,440 --> 00:04:08,600 For example, the Amazon Echo and Google Home or Voice Activated Assistance that can help 46 00:04:08,600 --> 00:04:13,880 seniors with tasks such as setting reminders or playing music. 47 00:04:13,880 --> 00:04:22,640 The AARP also has created several apps for seniors such as the AARP Now app which provides 48 00:04:22,640 --> 00:04:33,080 news and events and the AARP prescription app which helps seniors manage their medications. 49 00:04:33,080 --> 00:04:35,560 Those are some great recommendations. 50 00:04:35,560 --> 00:04:40,760 Now Wayne, let's talk about overcoming the fear technology which is something that many 51 00:04:40,760 --> 00:04:43,040 seniors experience. 52 00:04:43,040 --> 00:04:47,000 How can seniors overcome this fear? 53 00:04:47,000 --> 00:04:51,520 That fear is understandable but it shouldn't stop seniors from using it. 54 00:04:51,520 --> 00:04:58,280 One way to overcome this fear is to start with something simple like a basic smartphone 55 00:04:58,280 --> 00:05:02,640 and gradually work their way up to more complex devices. 56 00:05:02,640 --> 00:05:06,960 It's also helpful to find someone who is knowledgeable about technology and can provide 57 00:05:06,960 --> 00:05:09,840 guidance and support. 58 00:05:09,840 --> 00:05:15,640 Another way to overcome the fear of technology is to take a class or attend a workshop specifically 59 00:05:15,640 --> 00:05:18,120 designed for seniors. 60 00:05:18,120 --> 00:05:22,240 Playing Tech with Wayne has some of those. 61 00:05:22,240 --> 00:05:24,040 That's great advice. 62 00:05:24,040 --> 00:05:30,520 What are some of the benefits of attending these classes or workshops? 63 00:05:30,520 --> 00:05:35,480 These classes and workshops can provide seniors with a supportive and comfortable learning 64 00:05:35,480 --> 00:05:40,080 environment where they can ask questions and learn at their own pace. 65 00:05:40,080 --> 00:05:45,400 They can also provide an opportunity to meet other seniors who are also learning about technology 66 00:05:45,400 --> 00:05:50,040 and can offer support and advice. 67 00:05:50,040 --> 00:05:53,600 That sounds like a great way to learn about technology. 68 00:05:53,600 --> 00:05:59,960 Are there any online resources that seniors can use to learn about technology? 69 00:05:59,960 --> 00:06:01,880 Yes. 70 00:06:01,880 --> 00:06:08,320 There are several online resources available for seniors such as online tutorials, video 71 00:06:08,320 --> 00:06:10,640 courses and webinars. 72 00:06:10,640 --> 00:06:19,440 Some popular websites that offer these resources include SeniorNet, AARP and TechBooners. 73 00:06:19,440 --> 00:06:22,000 That's great to know. 74 00:06:22,000 --> 00:06:23,720 Thank you for those insights. 75 00:06:23,720 --> 00:06:30,360 Now let's dive deeper into some essential tech devices that can make a significant difference 76 00:06:30,360 --> 00:06:33,520 in the lives of our listeners. 77 00:06:33,520 --> 00:06:39,440 Certainly, one of the most important devices that seniors can use is a smartphone. 78 00:06:39,440 --> 00:06:45,400 A smartphone allows seniors to make calls, send messages and access the internet, all 79 00:06:45,400 --> 00:06:46,400 in one place. 80 00:06:46,400 --> 00:06:53,080 It is also helpful to have a smartphone with a larger screen or adjustable tech size to 81 00:06:53,080 --> 00:06:55,640 make it easier to read. 82 00:06:55,640 --> 00:06:57,960 That's a great suggestion. 83 00:06:57,960 --> 00:07:03,480 What are some other essential tech devices that seniors can use? 84 00:07:03,480 --> 00:07:05,200 Another is a tablet. 85 00:07:05,200 --> 00:07:11,800 A tablet provides a larger screen to the smartphone as perfect for reading books, browsing the 86 00:07:11,800 --> 00:07:14,520 internet or watching videos. 87 00:07:14,520 --> 00:07:20,440 There are also tablets with voice activated assistance like Amazon's Electra or Apple's 88 00:07:20,440 --> 00:07:27,200 Siri that can be helpful for seniors who have difficulty typing or using the touch screen. 89 00:07:27,200 --> 00:07:29,120 That's a great suggestion. 90 00:07:29,120 --> 00:07:34,280 What are some other essential tech devices that seniors can use? 91 00:07:34,280 --> 00:07:38,520 What about laptops or computers? 92 00:07:38,520 --> 00:07:45,240 Laptops or computers are also great devices for seniors who want to do more complex tasks 93 00:07:45,240 --> 00:07:48,800 like creating documents or managing finances. 94 00:07:48,800 --> 00:07:53,320 It's helpful to have a laptop or computer with the largest screen and a comfortable 95 00:07:53,320 --> 00:07:57,480 keyboard and mouse to make it easier to use. 96 00:07:57,480 --> 00:08:03,360 There are also specialized computers like the Tauketon or the Grandpad that are specifically 97 00:08:03,360 --> 00:08:09,240 designed for seniors with larger icons and simplified interfaces. 98 00:08:09,240 --> 00:08:13,680 Wayne, those are some great suggestions. 99 00:08:13,680 --> 00:08:19,680 How can seniors stay safe while using these devices? 100 00:08:19,680 --> 00:08:22,840 Safety is always concerned when using technology. 101 00:08:22,840 --> 00:08:28,480 Seniors should always keep their devices updated with the latest security patches and if appropriate 102 00:08:28,480 --> 00:08:31,280 use antivirus software. 103 00:08:31,280 --> 00:08:37,920 They should also be cautious of suspicious emails or websites that may concern malware 104 00:08:37,920 --> 00:08:39,560 or viruses. 105 00:08:39,560 --> 00:08:45,680 It is also important to be aware of scams that target seniors such as phishing or tech support 106 00:08:45,680 --> 00:08:48,200 scams. 107 00:08:48,200 --> 00:08:51,200 Thank you for those tips on staying safe. 108 00:08:51,200 --> 00:08:55,160 Now let's talk about some of the best apps for seniors. 109 00:08:55,160 --> 00:09:01,440 What are some apps that can be helpful for seniors? 110 00:09:01,440 --> 00:09:06,200 There are several apps that can be helpful depending on their interests and needs. 111 00:09:06,200 --> 00:09:13,960 For example, the AARP has created several apps like the AARP Now app which provides news 112 00:09:13,960 --> 00:09:22,040 and events and the AARP medication app which helps seniors manage their medications. 113 00:09:22,040 --> 00:09:27,760 Other apps that seniors might find helpful include Luminosity which provides brain training 114 00:09:27,760 --> 00:09:36,320 games and GoodRx which helps seniors find the best prices on prescription and medications. 115 00:09:36,320 --> 00:09:38,360 Those are some great suggestions. 116 00:09:38,360 --> 00:09:44,320 Are there any apps that can help seniors stay connected with their loved ones? 117 00:09:44,320 --> 00:09:50,240 Yes, there are several apps that can help seniors stay connected with their family and 118 00:09:50,240 --> 00:09:51,440 friends. 119 00:09:51,440 --> 00:09:58,000 For example, Skype, FaceTime and Zoom are all video chat apps that allow seniors to 120 00:09:58,000 --> 00:10:03,080 see and talk to their loved ones even if they're far away. 121 00:10:03,080 --> 00:10:07,640 Facebook is another app that can be helpful for seniors to stay in touch with family and 122 00:10:07,640 --> 00:10:10,360 friends. 123 00:10:10,360 --> 00:10:13,080 That's great to know. 124 00:10:13,080 --> 00:10:18,240 What about apps that can help seniors manage their health? 125 00:10:18,240 --> 00:10:21,960 There are several help related apps that can address that. 126 00:10:21,960 --> 00:10:28,480 For example, the MyFitnessPal app can help seniors track their exercise and diet and 127 00:10:28,480 --> 00:10:34,080 the MedSafe app can help seniors manage their medications by reminding them when to take 128 00:10:34,080 --> 00:10:36,040 their pills. 129 00:10:36,040 --> 00:10:42,720 The American Heart Association also has an app called Heart360 which can help seniors 130 00:10:42,720 --> 00:10:45,320 manage their heart health. 131 00:10:45,320 --> 00:10:48,400 Another app that I would recommend is the Nextdoor app. 132 00:10:48,400 --> 00:10:53,600 It's a social network app that connects seniors with their neighbors, allowing them to share 133 00:10:53,600 --> 00:10:58,440 information, ask for help, or simply get to know each other. 134 00:10:58,440 --> 00:11:03,760 It can be helpful for seniors who may feel isolated or alone. 135 00:11:03,760 --> 00:11:05,760 That's a great suggestion. 136 00:11:05,760 --> 00:11:11,560 Now let's talk about how seniors can choose the right tech device for their needs. 137 00:11:11,560 --> 00:11:19,120 Wayne, what are some things that seniors should consider when choosing a tech device? 138 00:11:19,120 --> 00:11:25,840 When choosing a tech device, seniors should also consider their specific needs and abilities. 139 00:11:25,840 --> 00:11:33,160 For example, they may want a device with a larger screen or adjustable text if they have 140 00:11:33,160 --> 00:11:35,520 trouble seeing. 141 00:11:35,520 --> 00:11:42,560 They may also want a device with activated assistance or simplified interfaces if they 142 00:11:42,560 --> 00:11:46,480 have difficulty typing or using a touch screen. 143 00:11:46,480 --> 00:11:53,320 It is also important to consider devices features such as battery life and storage capacity 144 00:11:53,320 --> 00:11:56,960 as well as its price. 145 00:11:56,960 --> 00:11:58,760 Those are some great points. 146 00:11:58,760 --> 00:12:01,200 What about operating systems? 147 00:12:01,200 --> 00:12:06,200 Should seniors choose a device with a specific operating system? 148 00:12:06,200 --> 00:12:11,760 Yes, the operating system can be an important factor to consider. 149 00:12:11,760 --> 00:12:16,680 For example, if seniors are already familiar with the Windows operating system, they may 150 00:12:16,680 --> 00:12:20,880 prefer a laptop or a computer with Windows. 151 00:12:20,880 --> 00:12:27,400 If they're already familiar with the Apple ecosystem, they may prefer an iPhone or iPad. 152 00:12:27,400 --> 00:12:32,760 It's important to choose a device with an operating system that they're comfortable using and 153 00:12:32,760 --> 00:12:35,080 that may meet their needs. 154 00:12:35,080 --> 00:12:36,600 That's a great point. 155 00:12:36,600 --> 00:12:38,440 What about accessories? 156 00:12:38,440 --> 00:12:44,520 Are there any accessories that can make it easier for seniors to use their devices? 157 00:12:44,520 --> 00:12:50,840 Yes, there are several accessories that can make it easier for seniors to use their devices. 158 00:12:50,840 --> 00:12:56,480 For example, a larger screen or adjustable text size can be helpful for seniors with vision 159 00:12:56,480 --> 00:12:57,480 problems. 160 00:12:57,480 --> 00:13:03,680 A comfortable keyboard and mouse can also make it easier to use a laptop or computer. 161 00:13:03,680 --> 00:13:09,360 There are also specialized accessories like styluses and touch pads that can help seniors 162 00:13:09,360 --> 00:13:13,120 who have difficulty using a touch screen. 163 00:13:13,120 --> 00:13:15,480 Those are some great suggestions. 164 00:13:15,480 --> 00:13:20,920 Before we wrap up this episode, do you have any final thoughts on how seniors can choose 165 00:13:20,920 --> 00:13:23,320 the right tech device? 166 00:13:23,320 --> 00:13:29,440 Yes, my final thought is that seniors should take the time to research and try out different 167 00:13:29,440 --> 00:13:31,960 devices before making a purchase. 168 00:13:31,960 --> 00:13:36,760 They should also consider their specific needs or abilities and choose a device that fits 169 00:13:36,760 --> 00:13:37,760 those needs. 170 00:13:37,760 --> 00:13:43,440 It's also helpful to find someone who is knowledgeable about the technology and can 171 00:13:43,440 --> 00:13:47,240 provide guidance and support. 172 00:13:47,240 --> 00:13:53,040 As with all the information we share here, flex your Google search muscles, log into 173 00:13:53,040 --> 00:13:56,200 our website or call our helpline. 174 00:13:56,200 --> 00:14:00,080 That number is 215-406-HELP. 175 00:14:00,080 --> 00:14:05,080 That's 215-406-4357. 176 00:14:05,080 --> 00:14:08,920 Well, I see that's all the time I have for today. 177 00:14:08,920 --> 00:14:11,520 And it has been my pleasure to be here. 178 00:14:11,520 --> 00:14:14,920 And I look forward to the next time we can do it again. 179 00:14:14,920 --> 00:14:19,160 I wish you all a farewell.