Posted on Apr 28, 2020 in Senior Tips
Even if you’ve been resistant to technology tips in the past, perhaps you’re starting to wish you were a little more tech-savvy now that we’re all spending more time at home.
Now more than ever, whether or not you enjoy using technology is not the point. What’s vital is understanding enough about tech so you can make your life easier and more convenient during lock down and beyond.
So, we decided to step in and help you to make tech work for you. Today is just the start, too. As this pandemic continues to disrupt our lives, here at Landmark Senior Living, we’re right here beside you. We’ll be bringing you more handy hints over the coming weeks so consider today an introduction to technology.
We’ll get right down to business now so we can familiarize you with some simple terminology first…
A computer is defined as any electronic device that manipulates information and possesses the ability to store, process, and retrieve that data.
Today, there are 4 broad types of devices meeting this definition:
If you have no idea at all what you’re doing, check out the Tech Boomers website. This resource has plenty of simple guidance to get you started.
Here are just some of the things you can do with a computer if you’re wondering why you should bother:
OK, if you want some help, there’s no need to pay.
GCFLearnFree is a wonderful free resource from the Goodwill Community Foundation. Learn some basic computer skills without spending a cent. There are plenty of paid services, too. We’d suggest starting out with the free options to see how you get on.
If you’re already confident using a computer and happy to visit YouTube and dig around, you can find lots of introductory tutorials.
YouTube is also a rich seam of information if you’re looking to set up a Facebook account or learn how to use Skype.
So…
By now, you should know what a computer is and you have several suggestions for getting some general and basic tuition.
Next, one of the most common questions we’ve received over the past weeks: how can you use FaceTime to make a video call?
If you have an iPhone, an iPad or a Mac, you can use Apple’s free video calling service, FaceTime.
Using it couldn’t be easier!
What can you do if you don’t have an iPhone?
Well, there are many competing services enabling you to place free calls.
Try downloading Skype, one of the oldest and most established platforms. This performs the same service as FaceTime but works on all devices including non-Apple devices.
OK, you should now be confident tinkering around and capable of staying in touch with your loved ones free of charge from a distance.
How about some entertainment during lock down?
If you’re a keen reader, you might already be running out of books.
What can you do if you can’t get to the library or the bookstore, then?
Well, electronic books, commonly known as e-books, allow you to enjoy your favorite pastime digitally.
To illustrate how easy it is to use an e-reader, we’ll use Amazon’s Kindle as an example.
With these initial steps complete, you’re all set up and ready to start downloading books.
With millions of titles, Amazon’s proprietary Kindle Store should be your first port of call.
How about if you don’t have an e-reader and you’re not interested in buying one?
If you don’t have an e-reader like a Kindle, don’t let that stop you.
All new Windows computers allow you to open e-books in the Microsoft Edge browser without needing to fiddle with the settings. Formatting is far from perfect but it’s readable.
Whether you use Windows or a Mac, consider downloading Calibre, an application that will help you read and organize your e-library.
You can buy and read e-books on both Android handsets and iPhones, too.
Get free e-books here:
We hope today’s technology tips have given you the confidence you need to harness all the tools at your disposal during these challenging times.
If you are interested in more assistance besides those solely with technology, contact any of our five Landmark Senior Living facilities today. We offer assisted living, memory care and respite stays. Whatever you need, we can help you with it here.
