Just because you’re older doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on the latest advancements in technology. In fact, most senior citizens today heavily depend on new devices and innovations. According to a 2016 study from the Pew Research Center, 42 percent of adults ages 65 and older own smartphones. Sixty-seven percent of adults in the same age range also utilize the Internet. If you’re wondering what new devices to pick up, have no fear. We have a list of some of the best tech gadgets for seniors to keep you caught up on the modern age.
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#1: Smartphones
Just because you’re in your golden years doesn’t mean that you can’t have a smartphone. Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy devices might not be senior-friendly out of the box, but you can tweak numerous settings to make it easier to use. There are options to increase the font size, adjust colors, and activate the speech-to-text system, which is easier than typing on the small screen. On the other hand, Greatcall’s Jitterbug smartphone is actually a smartphone that is actually targeted towards seniors. In addition to larger icons and a simplified menu, the phone also includes Google’s speech-to-text technology and the 5Star Urgent Response app, which can contact emergency response teams for you.
#2: Fitness Tracker Wearables
Surpass promotes an active lifestyle so it’s only right that you have a wearable device to go along with your daily workout sessions. Fitbit remains one of the most popular brands in this area with its many devices that track important statistics such as your total number of steps, heart rate, and sleeping habits. Other brands offer similar devices with other features such as GPS tracking, longer battery life, or a waterproof coating. With so many options available, you can easily find a wearable that fits your needs and budget.
Alternative fitness tracker brands
#3: Tablets
If a smartphone is too small for you then a tablet might be a suitable alternative. It has many similar features to smartphones with the exception that you can’t make standard phone calls or put it in your pocket. However, you can still download apps such as Skype, Whatsapp, or Messenger, which allow you to contact family and friends through text or video. You can also get additional apps to watch movies, TV shows, or read books. Speaking of books…
Popular tablet options
#4: Digital Picture Frames
You probably have volumes of photo albums, but like e-books, you can cram all of your content on one device. You can do this by scanning your pictures and then loading them onto a storage device such as small USB stick or SD card. Some digital frames also support videos so you can include even more of your favorite memories.
#5: Kindle or Nook e-readers
Transporting your library of favorite books might be tough, but you can easily save space by building a digital collection on an e-reader device such as the Amazon Kindle or Barnes & Noble’s Nook. These devices contain catalogs for thousands of books from classic novels to the latest bestsellers. There are also app versions of these e-readers for smartphones and tablets, and if you’d rather “listen” to books, you can download audiobook versions as well.
#6: Amazon Echo or Google Home assistants
Another device you might want to consider buying is a digital assistant, which can help you set up a schedule, translating your speech to text, or launch specific apps. Apple and Android phones have Siri and the Google Assistant, respectively, built-in the device but you can also buy the Amazon Echo or Google Home. In addition to providing you with reminders, playing music, and dishing out random facts on command, these devices can also manage and gather data other smart devices like lights, thermostats, or even your fitness tracker.
#7: Tile Bluetooth Tracker
Looking for misplaced keys or a wallet can be stressful, but finding these items is easier with a Tile Bluetooth tracker. After connecting them to your smartphone, these tiny squares can go on your keyring or inside your wallet. Your phone will then show each item’s last location, which saves valuable time. Tile also has adhesive trackers, which you can place on any item, as well as a luggage tag for traveling purposes.
#8: Medminder
Keeping track of a schedule for your pills is daunting, but the Medminder dispensers can alleviate that problem. The company’s basic dispenser, called Maya, includes a unique feature that shows lights flashing under specific compartments for scheduled medications. Other Medminder models include additional features such as locked compartments or an included medical alert device for emergencies.
