Technology – Stay Safe, Connected and Empowered

Technology in later life: stay connected, safe, and empowered 

As we grow older, embracing technology can feel like a daunting task. But the benefits of becoming digitally savvy can far outweigh the initial learning curve.  

From connecting with loved ones to stay in touch, being entertained, and staying safe, technology has become an essential tool in later life.  

Why technology matters 

The use of the internet among adults aged 75 and over has nearly doubled in recent years, rising from 29% in 2013 to 54% in 2020, according to the Office for National Statistics. Today, four in five people aged 65 and over (around 10.1 million) use the internet at least once a month.  

Technology helps you to: 

• Stay connected with family and friends.  

• Access entertainment, watch films, discover music and documentaries. 

• Manage health with apps that remind you to take medication or track appointments. 

• Stay mentally active with games, news, and educational resources. 

• Protect your safety with security devices such as video doorbells and remotely accessible alarm systems.

• Shop online for groceries so you don’t need to struggle with heavy bags.

• You can even get a digital assistant now, such as Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa and Google’s Nest who can help with setting reminders, calling contacts, controlling smart home devices, and providing news and weather updates. 

Online shopping brings great convenience

Getting started: Build on what you know 

The best way to get comfortable with technology is to start small. Whether it’s learning how to send a message, stream your favourite TV series, or set reminders, each skill builds confidence for the next. 

In many of our retirement communities, help is readily available to ease this journey into the digital world. At The Spindles in Menston, for example, one of our duty managers runs a fortnightly tech group and makes herself available in the homeowners’ lounge to offer guidance. This could involve anything from showing someone how to take a picture on their phone to explaining how to navigate a specific app.  

At The Sidings in Lytham, Dr Trevor has made the most of technology to enable him to enjoy his lifelong love of opera whenever the mood takes him. Having always been a fan of the arts, Dr Trevor discovered that YouTube offers a treasure trove of performances. From piano music to grand operas, he now has access to a world of culture at the touch of a button. 

For homeowners at The Sailings in Southport, the transition to digital has been just as impactful. Simon Norris, the General Manager, explains how the community’s monthly Tech-Support Group has helped homeowners navigate challenges ranging from setting up phones and broadband routers to renewing disabled badges online – a notoriously tricky task. This hands-on support has fostered a sense of empowerment and confidence, enabling homeowners to embrace the digital age with enthusiasm. 

Even partnerships with external organisations are making a difference. At Adlington House, in Urmston, collaboration with Age UK Trafford brought IT experts to the community, where they held classes. These sessions provided a welcoming environment for several homeowners to learn new skills and build their confidence online. 

Get comfortable with technology by starting small

Embracing the benefits 

Technology can enhance your life in countless ways. Video communication tools like Zoom and WhatsApp and social media platforms like Facebook allow you to stay connected with loved ones, no matter where they are. Streaming services such as Netflix provide endless entertainment options, while platforms like YouTube can introduce you to new hobbies and interests. Healthcare apps help you stay on top of your medication and appointments, and news and shopping apps bring convenience to your fingertips. 

For retirees, the digital world offers a wealth of opportunities to stay connected, informed, and entertained. The stories of homeowners like David, Trevor, and others illustrate how technology, coupled with the right support, can transform lives. As Trevor aptly puts it: “It’s amazing what’s out there when you start exploring.” 

 Using technology safely 

While technology opens up a world of possibilities, it’s important to stay vigilant against online scams. Here are some simple tips to help you to stay safe: 

Be cautious of messages or emails from unknown sources pretending to be a company or friend. Always verify their identity through trusted means. 

• Scammers often create urgency. Take your time to confirm the legitimacy of a request. 

• Be wary of unexpected claims about account issues or emergencies. Double-check through a reliable contact. 

• Never make payments or share personal details unless you’re certain it’s legitimate. 

• If in doubt, ask a trusted friend or family member for advice. 

For one of our homeowners, David, knowing he could pop downstairs and speak to a member of the management team for support was crucial when he received a suspicious message claiming to be from Royal Mail. Unsure if it was a scam, he was able to seek advice immediately, putting his mind at ease. 

If you are comfortable using the internet, these resources can be helpful in learning new skills online: 

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – www.ncsc.gov.uk

• Government-backed advice on staying safe online, avoiding scams, and securing your devices.

Get Safe Online – www.getsafeonline.org

• Free, easy-to-understand advice on internet safety, protecting passwords, and spotting scams.

Age UK Digital Advice – www.ageuk.org.uk

• Tailored online safety advice for older people, including tips on avoiding fraud and setting up secure accounts. 

Introduced in 2014, the Government Digital Inclusion Strategy aims to help people develop the necessary digital skills and confidence, so if you’re just getting started, many local libraries and other community centres now offer free digital skills classes or drop-in sessions where you can ask about using the internet safely. 

With a little guidance and support, the digital possibilities are exciting and endless.  

If you are ever worried that you’ve become a victim online, contact Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, to report what’s happened:  www.actionfraud.police.uk 

You may find our buzzword debunker helpful to understand what all those new technology-related words actually mean.

If you are a smart phone or tablet user, there are plenty of free of charge apps perfect for later life.

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