By Susan Chaityn Lebovits

Why technology matters, and how to bridge the learning gap.

As our world becomes increasingly digital, it’s essential for everyone to embrace technology— including senior citizens. While the idea of teaching your elderly parent how to use a smartphone or navigate the internet might sound as appealing as a trip to the DMV, the benefits are immense.Technology can significantly enhance their quality of life by providing access to information, as well as new opportunities to learn, socialize, and manage daily tasks with ease. (“Alexa, what is the weather today?”)

This article will outline why it is crucial for seniors to be tech-savvy and provide you with a detailed guide on how to set up a three-month Tech Bootcamp to help your parents confidently navigate the digital world. If you’re unable (or unwilling!) to assist, there are a number of organizations that specialize in educating the senior population for you.

Staying Connected Social isolation is a common issue among seniors, especially those who live alone or have mobility issues. Technology offers alternative ways to stay in touch with family and friends through video calls, social media, and messaging apps. This connection not only combats loneliness, it also fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for mental and emotional well-being.

Accessing Information and Resources The internet is a vast repository of information. From cooking tutorials and news updates, to local weather, the infinite nature of the web offers endless information. This access empowers the elderly to make informed decisions, stay up-to-date on current events, and continue to learn and experience new things such as art, music, local community events, and more.

Entertainment and Leisure Technology opens up a world of entertainment options. Seniors can enjoy movies, audiobooks, museum tours, the symphony, and online games that keep their minds active. These activities have the potential to significantly improve their mood, sharpen their mental acuity, and provide an enjoyable and fulfilling way to spend their time.

Health Management There are many apps and devices designed to help seniors manage their health. From fitness trackers that monitor physical activity to telehealth services that provide virtual doctor consultations, technology enables aging parents to take a proactive role in their health management.

Learning New Skills It’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks. Whether it’s picking up a new language, meditation, mastering photography, or exploring creative hobbies like painting or writing, technology offers endless opportunities for lifelong learning. (Grandma Moses – an American folk artist whose work was featured at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, began painting at age 78!)

Safety and Independence “Smart” home devices and safety apps can make seniors’ daily lives easier and safer. For example, smart speakers can control home devices with voice commands, and emergency alert apps can ensure that help is just a button away. An Amazon Alexa or Google Home device can also initiate phone calls via voice commands.

Setting Up a 3-Month Tech Bootcamp
To help your aging parents get comfortable with technology, you can use our structured 3-month tech bootcamp with weekly classes or create your own. Below is a suggested syllabus outlining the topics to cover and the steps to teach each topic effectively. By setting up a structured tech bootcamp and patiently guiding your parents through the learning process, you can empower them to confidently navigate the digital world and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer. If you do not have the time (or energy!) to commit, there are a number of organizations that will help. Those are listed at them bottom of this page.

Week 1 Introduction to Devices
Familiarize with smartphone, tablet, and computer basics; turning on/off, charging, basic navigation.
Explain buttons and ports.
Guide through home screens.
Practice using the touchscreen and mouse.

Week 2 Internet Basics
Understanding Wi-Fi; how to connect
Browsing the internet. Introduce web browsers.
Searching for information.
Demonstrate how to search for information on Google.

Week 3 Email Setup and Use
Create an email account.
Explain sending, receiving, and organizing emails.
Practice sending and receiving emails.
Demonstrate how to organize an inbox with folders.

Week 4 Video Calling and Messaging
Create accounts for video call platforms (e.g., Zoom, FaceTime) and messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Messenger).
Practice making video calls and sending messages; discuss privacy settings.

Week 5 Social Media Basics
Introduction to Facebook, Instagram; connecting with friends and family.
Explain social media platforms.
Create accounts.
Follow friends and family members.
Practice posting, liking, and commenting.
Review safety and privacy settings.

Week 6 Online Safety and Scams
Identifying common scams; understanding cybersecurity basics.
Discuss common online scams.
Teach how to recognize phishing emails and fake websites.
review safe browsing tips.

Week 7 Entertainment and Leisure
Explore apps for music, movies, audiobooks, and games.
Introduce platforms like Spotify, Netflix, YouTube.
Practice searching for and enjoying content.
Set up profiles and preferences.

Week 8 Health and Wellness Apps
Explore companies for health monitoring, virtual doctor visits, medication reminders.
Demonstrate setting up profiles.
Guide parent through booking virtual appointments
Set up medication reminders.

Week 9 Smart Home Devices
Introduction to smart speakers, lights, and safety devices.
Demonstrate how to use smart speakers (Alexa, Google Home).
Set up simple commands.
Connect smart lights and safety devices.

Week 10 Online Shopping and Banking
Set up accounts using digital wallets.
Guide through setting up accounts on shopping sites.
Demonstrate safe purchasing.
Introduce online banking basics and security.

Week 11 Learning Platforms
Explore online learning platforms (YouTube tutorials, Coursera, Duolingo. |
Practice finding and enrolling in courses. Libraries often offer classes.
Demonstrate navigating lessons and keeping track of progress.

Week 12 Review and Troubleshooting
Review all topics covered.
Go over basic troubleshooting skills for common tech problems.
Recap previous lessons.
Introduce resources for further help (e.g., help forums, support).|

Tips for Teaching Technology to Seniors
Be Patient and Encouraging: Learning something new can be intimidating, especially for seniors who did not grow up with technology. Celebrate small victories to build their confidence.

Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon and technical terms.

Go at Their Pace: Everyone learns at their own speed. Allow your parent to dictate the pace of learning and revisit topics as needed.

Hands-On Practice: Provide ample hands-on practice during each session. Encourage them to repeat actions multiple times until they feel comfortable.

Visual Aids and Step-by-Step Guides
Create easy-to-follow guides with screenshots or step-by-step instructions. Visual aids can be incredibly helpful for seniors.

Regular Review
Regularly review past lessons to reinforce learning. Repetition is key to retaining new skills.

Be Available for Support: Offer ongoing support even after the bootcamp ends. Be available to answer questions and troubleshoot issues as they arise.

Organizations to help teach seniors technology skills: