TECH SAVVY

seniors learn to get comfortable with the latest technology

By Kathy Dean Contributing Editor kathydean@atlantaseniorlife.com

Computers, tablets and smartphones add comfort and convenience to people’s lives every day. With a few swipes or taps, anything from pizza to prescription refills can be ordered, and everything from car services to doctor appointments can be scheduled. Online shopping means that no one lives too far from a store to get what they need, whether it’s groceries, clothes or a car.

There are weather apps that provide alerts to dangerous conditions and calendar apps that send out reminders for birthdays and appointments. Handheld devices keep shopping lists handy, list out TV programs and even help with crossword puzzle clues.

Most importantly, everyone can keep in touch with family and friends through texting and social media sites, and that seems to be the most important benefit that technology offers to many older adults. In fact, Facebook’s 2014 demographics report showed that the number of adult users over the age of 55 had increased during the previous three-year period by more than 80 percent.