Make computing fun for a senior citizen near you!
I’m the guy who everyone calls when they have a computer problem; I’ve done it for my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and in-laws, among others. Here’s the best way to bring a senior citizen near you into the modern computing world.
Buy the right kind of computer hardware
When seniors want to buy a new computer, they often don’t know what to get, so it may be up to you to assist them in selecting the appropriate hardware, taking into account your budget, computer literacy level, and available space.
Pick the right operating system
If your senior doesn’t know what they want, try to introduce them to a tablet; if they prefer a Windows machine, keep them there. Remember, tablet computing (also known as mobile device computing) is likely a foreign concept to them.
Install the software they’ll need (not necessarily what they want)
Giving your computing senior what they need rather than what they think they want can be a blessing in disguise. Most people only want to do a few things on their computers: read email, surf the web, and take and share photos. The goal is to keep things simple and familiar.
Set everything up and show them what to do
I’ve found that it’s best to set everything up ahead of time before delivering the computer or computing device to them; whatever you give them, the solution should be as turnkey as possible, with them only having to turn the device on to get started.
Create a Cheat Sheet
Seniors appreciate a hard copy set of written instructions as part of their turnkey solution, which includes passwords for all of the important apps and sites they use (such as email) as well as simple instructions on the more difficult tasks they wish to complete.
Demo the Hardware
When you deliver the PC, show them everything; if there’s a special mouse, touchpad, fingerprint reader, TrueDepth camera, pen or stylus, etc., you’ll need to go over these components with them.
Show them the Software
How to Watch Videosu2013 Are they going to use Quick Time, iTunes, or another app to stream or watch downloaded movies on their device? Show them where to look for the video they want to watch and how to get started. How to Edit Photosu2013 This could include transferring photos from their digital camera, smartphone, or other sources.
Conclusion
Keeping things simple and familiar will make their computing experience more enjoyable, and will reduce the number of support calls. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links.
What is the easiest to use computer for seniors?
The Top 10 Laptops for Senior Citizens
- TOSHIBA Tecra A50-E.
- HP Pavilion.
- Apple MacBook Air.
- ASUS Chromebook.
- Dell Inspiron 14 2 In 1 Laptop.
- Acer Aspire E 15, 15.6u2032u2032 Full HD, 8th Gen.
- HP Chromebook.
- Apple MacBook Pro.
- Acer Aspire E 15, 15.6u2032u2032 Full HD, 8th Gen.
Is there a simple computer for seniors?
Acer Aspire TC-780-ACKi3 Desktop This is a good option for seniors who want a basic desktop computer that runs Windows 10 and performs well, as well as a large hard drive with plenty of storage space for movies, videos, and other media.
How can the elderly get a free computer?
Seniors can get free computers from a variety of places.
- Smart Riverside.
- Free Geek.
- Your Community Senior Center.
- Local Free Government Computers or Nonprofit Sources.
- Your Local Computer Repair Shops.
- School Computer Upgrades.
How do seniors use computers?
Things a Computer Can Help You With:
- Play games.
- Download and watch movies.
- Listen to music.
- Stay in touch with friends and family (via social media software such as Facebook or voice calls and video chats via software such as Skype)
- Sharing photo albums.
Does Apple have a computer for seniors?
The Apple iMac Series is a high-end desktop that many readers will remember from school, but it’s also a great option for your senior because the processors and innards of the computer are built into the screen as well, so you won’t have to worry about taking up too much space in their room.
What is the easiest tablet for seniors to use?
Top Tablets for Seniors in 2020 u2013 The Best Tablets for Seniors
- Apple iPad 9.7.
- Lenovo Tab 4.
- Huawei MediaPad M5 Pro Android Tablet.
- Microsoft Surface Pro 6.
- Apple iPad Mini.
- Sony Xperia Z4.
- Apple iPad Pro (11-inch).
Where can seniors learn computer skills?
The 7 Most Beneficial Computer Courses for Seniors
- The Senior’s Guide to Computers is a resource for seniors who are new to technology.
- Skillful Senior.
- Goodwill Community Foundation Inc.
- TechBoomers.
- Meganga.
- YouTube.
- In-Person Classes.
- Books.
Which laptop is best for seniors?
In 2021, the best laptops for seniors will be reviewed.
- Dell Inspiron 14 5481.
- Apple MacBook Air With M1 Chip.
- LG Gram Laptop.
- HP Pavilion 15.
- Microsoft Surface Pro 7.
- Apple MacBook Pro.
- Asus ZenBook Flip S.
- Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop.
What is the simplest computer?
It became official after a round of revisions: Wolfram’s machine is now the simplest universal computer possible.
Is there a way to get a free laptop from the government?
Cfy.org is a national organization that works with the government to provide computers, both PCs and laptops, to those in need. Internet packages with broadband and learning programs are also available.
How can I get a free laptop from the government?
How to Get a Free Laptop from the Government (or a Non-Profit Organization)
- Check to See if You’re Entitled to Any Benefits.
- Get Natural Disaster Assistance.
- Visit Computers with Causes.
- Use United Way Worldwide.
- Contact the On It Foundation.
How do I qualify for a free computer?
You must be a K-12 student in a public school and on the free or reduced lunch program to qualify for a free computer. To apply for the program, parents must submit a letter of request that explains their specific need and how the computer could benefit their child.
Why do seniors struggle with technology?
There are reasons to believe that those included in these statistics are unable to fully participate in mainstream technology due to reduced reactivity, which makes it difficult to keep up with fast-paced technology, such as platforms that use notifications.
What are basic computer skills for beginners?
Conclusions
- Start and shut down your computer properly.
- Navigate the operating system and start applications.
- Perform basic file management functions.
- Perform basic functions in a word processor and spreadsheet.
- Manage print settings and print documents.
How do you teach the elderly?
Consider the following teaching suggestions for elderly patients:
- Maintain a positive and patient attitude.
- Take a few minutes to talk and problem-solve before beginning to teach.
- Identify significant cultural or social factors that may affect the teaching learning process.