How Voice Command Technology Helps Seniors

Whether our clients are downsizing, have decided to age in place, or are moving to a senior living community, one thing is consistent – an increasing number of seniors are finding life is easier and they feel safer with new technologies.

One of the new favorites are voice command devices. They’re easy to use and can do so much to help make life easier.

Voice command devices are exactly what they sound like—devices you control with your voice. Whether it’s your phone or a speaker, simply ask a question or give a command.

Popular options:

  1. Cell Phones: Smartphones like iPhones and Samsungs come equipped with voice-controlled personal assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. They can answer questions, add items to a calendar, send a text, and more.
  2. Speakers: Apple’s Home Pod, Google Home, and Amazon Echo (powered by Alexa) are leading the pack, offering seamless voice control for a myriad of tasks from turning on lights, answering questions, setting timers and making calls. Many clients we work with appreciate the ability to use these speakers to easily call 911 or a family member in the event of an emergency at their home.

Why use them?

  1. Simplify Your Life: Let technology do the heavy lifting. Control smart devices, set reminders, or even place orders—all with just your voice.
  2. Peace of Mind: Stay worry-free with calendar reminders, home automation, and easy note-taking, all at your command.
  3. Never Stop Learning: Get instant answers to questions, play games, or stay connected with family—all with a simple voice command.

>>Read more about voice command technology in the article “3 Reasons Seniors Need Voice Command Devices” from SeniorLiving.com.

>>Feel like you need assistance with incorporating technology into your home? Contact your county’s senior services department or visit a senior center near you. They often have resources or volunteers who are able to help.

Demystifying the Smart TV for Seniors

When I help a family with a relocation, inevitably there are questions about incorporating technology into the new residence. This is especially common for seniors who may not know about or really even need the latest tech.

The technologies they do need are security systems, internet service for computers, and the device they use every day — the television. These days, it means adapting to the Smart TV.

First, what is a Smart TV?

It is a television with built-in internet connectivity and a user interface allowing you to access online content and applications.

  • Streaming:
    Unlike regular TVs, which primarily receive broadcast signals through antennas or cable connections, Smart TVs allow you to stream content from popular services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, browse the web, and even run applications directly on the TV screen. Think of a Smart TV as a television and computer combined into a single device.
  • Bluetooth:
    Smart TVs often feature wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (you can even connect hearing aids) allowing you to connect them to various devices in your home network.
  • Casting and Mirroring:
    You can cast photos, videos, and music from your smartphone or tablet to your Smart TV wirelessly. Additionally, many Smart TVs support screen mirroring, enabling you to mirror your smartphone or tablet screen directly onto the TV for a larger viewing experience.

Want to know more? Check out Senior Planet from AARP which has a Techspert with articles about technology and educational webinars each month. One of the most recent articles is “3 Cool Things to Know About Smart TVs” is a great place to start and provides step by step instructions on how to connect the Bluetooth.