Older adults are clearly more tech proficient today… On the positive side, data sources show that older adults are more proficient today than in years past – why? Because of necessity. Consider smartphones and enabling apps, software like FaceTime, social media tech, and TV remotes. It is nearly impossible to function at all without these skills. They can be discovered through trial and error – or training can be found to help. These options include online, video, or live classes including GetSetup, Senior Planet, CyberSeniors, IBM SkillsBuild for Seniors, Senior Tech Connect and many more. But the more capable all become, the more new tech they encounter.
New tech is everywhere, frequently upgraded and rarely explained. Consider the move toward symbols to replace text commands – for signal strength, network connection, WiFi access, battery and more. Should most people read the ‘What’s new in this release’ documentation? Yes – if they want to figure out how to use the device. This need-to-know applies to using your possibly smart thermostat, voice-enabled TV remote, your smart speaker, and even how to print to your new Wi-Fi-enabled printer.
Car features – especially for those who ever rent a car. These newer features did not exist in previous cars – so it’s a new environment every time and may make it tough to get out of the parking lot. Knobs and buttons have mostly been removed, replaced by a glass menu. So many driver assist features are in the car today, pointing to which side the gas tank is, that beep (warning of nearby obstacles), or screech at (objecting to lane departure). In addition, most cars do not have a manual in the glovebox – which would be useful for getting started with the car, especially for renters. And of course, every manufacturer has a different view of where the controls should be.
Health software and devices. More people are acquiring smart watches today, wanting to use them or the smartphone itself to measure sleep, steps, heart rate, activity level, food consumption and calories, weight and at the same time track outside temperature and UV. These are setup ‘opportunities’ for determined users who have departed the store with the device and did not take advantage of the limited training. As a result, these features will likely be found via trial and error, by asking someone, or plowing through online sources. Or the best option, go back to the store and ask.
