Embracing new technology can be an intimidating prospect for people of any age, but often it is the senior generations who are faced with the greatest learning curve. However, studies have shown that older people who learn to use technology are less likely to experience loneliness and can slow the decline of cognitive processing. This doesn’t take away from the fact that it takes time to get comfortable with new devices and technology, but doing so bring several benefits to your life. Here are some examples of technology and modern devices which you may consider using to improve your quality of life in a range of ways.
Access Entertainment & Learning on a Smart Device
A tablet or smartphone is operated by touching the screen. Some people can find using one for the first time an odd experience, but it doesn’t take long to get the hang of it as they’re designed to be as easy as possible to use. The most recent models such as iPads and Amazon Kindle Fire can also be operated by simply speaking to them. You can use the tablets to search the internet (when connected to Wi-Fi), communicate with friends and family, play games, watch TV and films and take photos. Doro smartphones are designed for senior uses with a user-friendly interface with independent, secure living in mind.
Moreover, smart devices are portable. Smart devices like smart TV will not only let you watch your favorite drama or show but they can also be used to check the weather, listen to music, see images or video on a larger screen, and also it can be voice-activated and another feature that ordinary TV can’t do. Smartwatches can do so much these days, including monitoring things like sleep and blood oxygen levels, so could be another smart device you may wish to learn more about with a view to adding into your life. These smartwatches do vary in terms of their features and capabilities, so it’s worth doing your research so that you choose the best one for you. If you are looking at an Apple Watch, for example, you may wish to take a look at this great article here to learn about whether or not you will be able to wear it in the shower, swimming, and other water-based scenarios. There are endless possibilities you can do with a smart device however you’d like to use them for learning and entertainment.
Smartphone companies release new models from left to right, with upgraded features and functions that the competitors don’t have. Aside from computing, one of the latest and greatest features of smartphones today are their top-of-the-line cameras that are almost as good as cameras.
Reduce Energy Bills with Solar Panels
Paying bills is not enjoyable at any age, but when you’re retired the need to minimize expenses is often even more important. Electricity bills are increasing every year, so why not invest in the latest solar panel technology and generate your own free electricity? If you get the right system installed by a reputable company, home solar systems can provide enough power for an entire home all year round. You learn more about home solar systems at www.goingsolar.com.
Since solar panels are an expensive, one-time purchase, it can take a while to build your own sustainable energy system. While you’re still collecting your solar panels, you can look for friendly and reliable energy plans offered by the best electricity providers within your area.
Control Your Heating with a Smart Thermostat
If you have a smartphone and an internet connection at home, a smart thermostat could give you greater control over your heating and hot water system. Rather than having to manually adjust a thermostat when you want to decrease or increase the temperature or turn it off and on, you can do so from your chair, your bed or even when you’re on the bus. You can also set schedules so the heating will control itself, and some models like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat will learn your heating habits and adapt to the weather outside.
Traditional thermostats are capable of reading the temperature only of the air surrounding them, which can give inaccurate readings and make other parts of your home uncomfortable temperatures. Thankfully, many smart thermostats have built-in room sensors that can detect the temperature of the entire room, and sends the information to the thermostat for it to adjust appropriately.
Widen Your Library with an E-Reader
An E-Reader is an electronic library of thousands of books in the palm of your hand, but that’s not the only advantage they have over traditional books. E-Readers have some useful accessibility features like adjustable screen brightness and font sizes so you can adapt the text to suit your needs. They are very easy to use as you simply push a button to turn the page and because they are lightweight you can take them around with you very easily.
E-Readers are built for one purpose: reading. Instead of browsing online using a smartphone or tablet to read, you can have an E-Reader instead to lessen the distraction. This will encourage you to read especially if you’re trying to develop a reading habit and this device is perfect for you.
Additionally, you can perform productive tasks such as checking your emails and searching the web using an E-Reader.
Stay Active with a Fitness Tracker
It’s important to stay as fit and active as possible and a wearable fitness tracker such as a Fitbit makes this easier than ever before. You wear it on your wrist like a watch, and it will track a range of activity metrics from how many steps you take, and calories burnt, to your sleeping pattern.
Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.
