Fun and Practical Tablet Apps
The term tablet refers to touchscreen-based computers that tend to be light and easily portable. The iPad is one of the more wellknown examples of these, although there are many others. Because they are a type of computer, tablets have their own operating system and can run a large number of applications (apps), including many different games. Tablets may range from a screen size of around 5 inches all the way up to around 10 inches, with screen sizes from 7 to 10 inches being the most common. Most tablets will run either an Apple or an Android operating system. Many apps will be present in the stores for both types of tablets, but some will only be offered by one of the stores. Most of the apps I'm discussing here are present in both stores, and I specify the cases where this isn't true.
The range of apps and games for tablets can be daunting. For example, some of the categories include puzzle, word, casual, card and board games - and that isn't even counting the more practical apps, like audiobook players and eBook readers. This can be pretty overwhelming even if you only want to find a few suitable apps. The recommendations in this article come from talking to seniors and their families, and also from looking online, to figure out which apps are most suitable for seniors. While many seniors can play any game, the emphasis here is on apps that are relatively easy to pick up and learn - to accommidate seniors who may struggle with some elements of using a tablet.
PICKING TABLET APPS AND GAMES
CASUAL GAMEs Angry Birds Rio (for Apple and Android) is a puzzle game, but the simple controls and fun graphics make it a good pick for seniors. The basic aim of the game is to use a slingshot and knock down buildings and there are many other games in the Angry Birds range, and they are all pretty similar. As with many games, this app is hit or miss, some seniors will love it, others won't be interested at all.
Farmville 2: Country Escape (for Apple and Android) is a farm game with an emphasis on growing crops and earning money. Farmville has attracted large audiences through Facebook and this particular app is Farmville's tablet offering. It is a game that requires strategy, reading and planning, so it might not be suitable for all seniors. However, I know a number of seniors who enjoy the game and like the way that it keeps them thinking. Additionally, this game has a social element, allowing players to join a coop, where they can help one another and chat to one another. I've seen players get so caught up in the chat that they barely touch the rest of the game.
Peggle Blast (for Apple and Android) is hard to explain, but the game basically involves using a ball to knock out pegs. Peggle looks complicated at first, but the game is easy to pick up and can be a lot of fun without being confusing. Peggle Blast is the free version of the game, and has in-app purchases. The original game and its sequel (Peggle and Peggle Nights) are both also available on Android and Apple. These versions cost to purchase, but are better in the longrun.
The Sims Freeplay (for Apple and Android) is a version of the Sims franchise, although most seniors probably haven't heard of the franchise. This is a task-based game where users build families and send characters (Sims) on tasks. It requires less strategy than Farmville, but both games require waiting for tasks to finish. This is a common approach in many similar games, and makes for relaxing game play, where you set it up and come back later.
Kindle (for Apple and Android) is one example of an eBook reader, although there are many other apps with similar functions. Kindle can be a good choice, as buying books through the app (or online) is relatively simple and the prices are often reasonable. In fact, you can buy Kindle apps from the Amazon store. Most apps for eBook reading have options to make the book easier to read, such as increasing font size or altering the contrast. Using this type of app can be a great way for seniors to read and the app gives you the ability to make any book into a large print book.
ENTERTAINMENT APPS
Audible (for Apple and Android) is one of many apps for playing audiobooks. As with Kindle, this app makes it easy to buy books, and both Kindle and Audible are tied into Amazon. The books can be a bit on the expensive side, but Audible offers a monthly plan that gives users one audiobook per month and 30% off all other audiobooks. This is a great option for seniors who have trouble reading (or don't want to)
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