More seniors are embracing technology than ever before, especially those in senior care living facilities who use it to maintain regular contact with their families. Over 70% of those aged 65 years and older use the Internet, and 53% are smartphone users. But how well do they use these devices? Are they getting anything out of it, and do they know what the possibilities are? If your loved one finds technology challenging to learn, below are three easy ways to boost their knowledge and confidence.

How to Teach Technology to Seniors

1. Don’t Overwhelm Them

The quickest way to lose and confuse someone is by talking over their head. Tailor your language to your audience. Do they need to know a device has 256GB of memory or a 16-megapixel telephoto lens? If not, address it as storage and a camera. Also, don’t show them something they’re not likely to need. If your family member uses a tablet to write emails and video call from their senior care facility, they don’t need to know how other, more complex programs work unless they have an interest in them. 

2. Create a Cheat Sheet

Before you start your coaching session, create a cheat sheet of what you’re about to go through. You can use this as a guide throughout, and they can make notes as you go along. This way, when they use the device again, the sheet is familiar to them and will have helpful additional notes.

3. Show as You Go

Language and word usage have transformed since parents and grandparents were young. Even when avoiding jargon, words like upload, swipe, and backup can be alien to somebody not raised in a tech-based world. The key to being understood is to show, not tell. When showing someone how to use a new device, sit next to them and talk them through what you’re doing as you do it, and then have them practice it. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but your success will be far greater than if you were to explain it verbally to them.

The Northfield is a Family Service Communities enriched housing development in Fairport, NY. This spacious, comfortable senior living community welcomes residents from Monroe County and the surrounding areas. It offers roomier apartments than its competitor communities in the lower monthly rent industry. Once your loved one has mastered new technology, they’ll enjoy using unlimited free Wi-Fi and Internet access. Other amenities and senior care services include recreational activities, medication monitoring, an on-site doctor, and weekly housekeeping. Every resident also receives three nutritious meals each day, freshly prepared on-site. Call today to request a tour at (585) 377-1810 or visit the website to find out more.