Technology has become such central part of daily life that there are few things left that it doesn’t touch. But while it may be convenient for those who grew up with devices to register for an event using an online form or settle a restaurant bill on a tablet, for older adults it can be the exact opposite: a daunting barrier to doing the things they used to do with ease.
Technology is developing at a rapid pace, which can feel not only overwhelming, but also incredibly isolating for older adults. For example, if they don’t text or use social media, they may find it difficult to stay in touch with grandchildren who prefer those methods of communication. If they can only sign up for an activity online, they may just decide not to go altogether.
The good news is that caregivers can play a vital role in helping loved ones build confidence with technology. Here are some ways you can help them get started:
Start with the Basics That Matter Most
One of the most helpful ways to set older adults up for success is to start with the technology they will actually use. Consider the things they need to learn (accessing medical information) as well as the things they’ve expressed an interest in (seeing videos of their grandchildren), and leave out the rest. For example, there’s no need to force an older adult to get on social media if that confuses or doesn’t appeal to them. Loading up on helpful apps may seem like a good idea, but can wind up just cluttering up their screens with things they’ll never use.
Here are some basics that your older loved one might find helpful:
- Communication tools: Email, video calls, text messages
- Health management: Accounts with their medical providers to schedule appointments and view screening results and prescriptions
- Finance: Accounts with their bank, insurance, mortgage lender, etc
By focusing on relevance, you can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and clearly show your loved one how technology can directly benefit them.
Encourage Hands-On Learning
Providing a step-by-step cheat sheet to help to instruct an older loved one in using a certain program or visiting a website has its uses, but older adults often learn best through hands-on experience. When showing a new skill, walk through the steps slowly, then let them try it themselves while providing support. The more they repeat a task, the easier it will be for them to remember, and the less they’ll have to rely on a cheat sheet.
Use Available Community Resources
Caregivers don’t need to do all the teaching themselves. Many communities offer free or low-cost tech classes designed specifically for older adults. Public libraries and senior centers often run workshops on topics like using smartphones, making website accounts and staying safe online. A great benefit of these programs is that they usually involve peer learning. Learning with other people their age can relieve pressure and help older adults build confidence.
Emphasize Digital Safety
In addition to teaching how to use technology, it’s important to discuss how to use it safely, especially since older adults tend to be vulnerable to scams that manipulate their unfamiliarity with technology. Review basic internet safety practices with them, such as recognizing suspicious emails, creating strong passwords and being careful with their personal information.
Be Patient and Celebrate Progress
Technology can feel like second nature to the generations that adopted it early or even grew up with it, which can make them forget that it’s a skill as much as learning to drive a car or studying a new language are. By making a commitment to learning how to navigate smartphones and computers, your loved one is expanding their knowledge and capabilities—and that’s something worth encouraging! Be supportive on their journey, and praise them for what they get right as often as you correct their mistakes. Successfully making a video call with a grandchild might be its own reward, but hearing how proud you are of their efforts still goes a long way in helping them build confidence and a positive relationship with technology!