Technology now makes it possible to host family dinners, gather with friends, read bedtime stories to children from a distance, visit museums, and so much more without leaving home. You don't have to be tech-savvy to use these tools – there are many available that are easy to use. Still not confident? The resources in this section can help you figure out which tools might work best for you, help you learn how to use them, and provide suggestions on how you can use technology to do the things you enjoy.
How to get started
- How to Become Tech Savvy Seniors in 10 Days. Aging in Place. Article with tips on how to get started using digital tools.
- Internet for Seniors on Low and Fixed Incomes. SeniorLiving.org. Information on the benefits of having internet access as a senior, what type of things you can do online, and descriptions of free communication services and devices.
- Senior Planet. A national program that helps older adults use technology to improve their social engagement, financial security, civic participation, health, and creativity.
Learn tech skills
- Cyber-Seniors. Free tech support to seniors using an intergenerational, youth volunteer model. Help is available through one-on-one phone calls or daily webinars.
- Internet Basics for Seniors. Allconnect. Comprehensive guide for seniors on the skills and knowledge they need to use the internet, including definitions for common internet-related terms and how to read a web address or URL.
- Senior Tech Corner: Tech Terms. FindingContinuingCare.com. List of the latest tech terms you need to know.
- Skillful Senior. Interactive, basic tutorials created to teach seniors everything from the proper computer posture to key positions on your keyboard.
Accessible tech tools
- Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center. Find your state’s Assistive Technology Act program for information on accessible technologies, demonstrate them, and even teach you how to use them.
- Best Video Conferencing Apps and Software for Accessibility. The Big Hack. Overview of accessibility features for video conferencing.
- How to Make Your Virtual Meetings and Events Accessible to the Disability Community. Rooted in Rights. Ways to ensure that accessibility for virtual events is a priority and central to the planning process from the beginning.
- How to Pick an Accessible Virtual Meeting Platform. Department of Labor Office of Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT). Best practices for identifying meeting platforms that are fully accessible for people with disabilities.
Getting access to phone and internet services
- 7 Sources of Low-Cost Internet for Seniors. Daily Caring. List of internet service provides that are helping seniors get online with low-cost services.
- ConnectHome USA Low-Cost Internet Service and Computers. EveryoneOn. Free search tool to find low-cost internet service and computers available in your area.
For Families and Caregivers
- How to Teach Technology to Seniors. Papa. A step-by-step strategy to explain technology to someone who is unfamiliar with it.
- Ultimate Guide to Teach Tech to Seniors. Easy Tech Seniors. Highlights most appropriate approach to educate seniors on making the most out of technology, with the goal of making teaching technology to seniors stress-free. Be sure to check their Beginners Info Archive.