Modern technologies like smartphones, computers, wearables, and the internet can be used in many ways that are very relevant for older adults. But they frequently are looking for help and advice on how to use the technology, how to choose it, and how to get it supported.Below you can hear our discussions, and share what we are learning about these topics.NOTE: Discussions about specific topics like Alexa or Apple Watch are found in other areas. Look under "Recommendations" in the top, main menu for things like Smarthome, Robotics and AI, or Medical Alerts, or if you are interested in video interactions you would look under Social isolation and Loneliness..
Over the past few years, I have been the major caregiver for my mother, who lives 350 miles away. This article is partly about my experiences using Alexa to help her, and partly to share some things I have learned about what is important in teaching technology to older adults in ways that … Read more
Don’t you wish you could adjust their camera so they don’t move out of the field of view during Zoom calls? Well, you can.
My mom still has a hard time remembering to join the scheduled Zoom Meeting.
Here is a solution that automates the joining of the scheduled Zoom Meeting… no more having to remember to join, no more listening for a notification, or even pushing a button!
Which products and services can help an older adult live independently, and with autonomy, as long as possible? Together with a community of older adults called the Longevity Explorers, Tech-enhanced Life has spent the last 8 years exploring the intersection of aging and technology, and evaluating a wide range of products and services … Read more
For years I have been experimenting with different ways to make TV easier for my elderly relatives. You can see one example of how I did this here: Making TV Useful For My 94-yr-old Aunt However, as new gadgets come to market I am always interested in trying them out, and this article is about … Read more
This is a solution to the challenge some people have using TV remotes. I designed it for a person with dementia but others may like it too.
The Longevity Explorer groups have frequently brought up the complaint that their TV remote is too complicated. It's a recurring theme any time one asks about technology design and examples of poorly designed gadgets.
There is a feature available in Zoom that allows your loved one to select a series of photos to share with you. This is much better than holding physical photos in front of your camera during a Zoom meeting.
If you’ve had problems trying to explain to your remote loved one how to setup or use an application on their iPhone or iPad while talking to them on the phone, you may want to consider a solution that allows you to remotely view what is being shown on their screen. You can do that using Zoom.
Although my mom really does enjoy video calls from me on her Echo Show, I have problems getting the rest of my family members interested in Alexa Calling as they are only familiar with Zoom calls. I arranged it so my Mom can Zoom on her big screen TYV. Here is how to do it.