Technology use is rising across all generations. However, it is especially high among older adults. A Pew Research study found that there has been a 55% rise in seniors accessing the internet over the past 20 years. Half of them have broadband at their homes for the first-time. Technology can be very helpful in our daily lives but its constantly changing nature can make it difficult to use. These are some simple tips to help seniors become more tech-savvy with the internet, email, smartphones, and social media.
1. Choose strong passwords
Choose a unique password for each website or account that has a login. Consider using special characters and symbols and longer words together. Avoid sending password information via email or social media.
2. Google it if you are unsure
Are you interested in finding out more information about an event? It doesn’t matter if you don’t know the company’s web address. You can search Google for their information. Google, the most popular search engine, provides trusted and safe answers to all your online questions. It will help you find the most recent news and order groceries.
3. Make sure your antivirus software is up-to-date
Consider downloading antivirus software if you don’t have it installed. Many free options are available to protect your computer from malicious viruses and hackers. These tools are automatically installed on your computer so that you don’t need to do much other than periodically update them. This will allow you to surf the internet with a greater sense of security.
4. For easy reading, change your settings
You can adjust your settings to increase text size or decrease the brightness of your smartphone’s screen. Learn how to modify them.
5. Contacts for family and friends can be added
You can save contact information to your phone so that you don’t have to remember or type each person’s number. These instructions will show you how to add contacts to your phone.
6. Use a captioned phone
CapTel captioned phones are a great option for those who can’t hear well on their smartphones. They allow you to stay connected with your loved ones by using captioned phone calls. CapTel phones have captions that show every word the caller speaks, so you can understand everything.
7. Do not reply to emails sent by people you do not know
It is not pleasant to think of the scammers who are sending you emails trying to get your personal information. These cyber criminals can be avoided by refusing to open or respond to emails from people you do not know. Don’t believe everything you hear.
8. Pay attention when you click on attachments or links.
Before you click on any link in an email, verify the identity of the sender . It is safe to open an attachment or link if it came from someone you trust. It is best to be cautious when dealing with anything unknown on the Internet.
9. Don’t share too much
Social media can be used to communicate with others. However, it is important to be selective in what information you share. You should not share personal information, such as your address, social security number, or phone number, on public forums or with strangers online. Apart from your personal information you should also be careful about what you share about others you know without their permission.
10. Follow online etiquette
Social media users must follow a few unspoken rules. Writing with the caps lock on is often interpreted as shouting. Emojis and images can have different meanings. It’s a good idea to do some research on a symbol you are using on social media, or anywhere else.
