The rise of COVID-19 has brought on many challenges for seniors, including keeping in touch with our loved ones. With safety in mind, many of you reading this may be isolated at home. It’s true that safety right now is critical for your health; however, your mental well-being is equally important.
If you’re looking for a way to stay connected to your community, but you lack the means or know-how, keep reading for tips on how to stay connected with your family and friends during a global pandemic.
Why Technology Matters More Than Ever for Older Adults
For many older adults, technology used to feel optional, something “nice to have” but not truly necessary. COVID-19 changed that. In a short period of time, everyday life moved online: doctor visits, family gatherings, religious services, community programs, and even routine errands. The world didn’t stop, it simply shifted into digital spaces.
When seniors are not part of those spaces, it can feel like life is happening without them. That’s not just inconvenient. Over time, it can create emotional distance, loneliness, and a sense of disconnection that affects both mental and physical health.
Technology does not need to be complicated or overwhelming. The goal isn’t to become “great at tech.” The goal is much simpler: to use basic tools to maintain relationships, protect mental health, and stay engaged with the world, especially when in-person contact is limited.
The Importance of Staying Connected
Many of us believe that we can survive on our own, preferring to rely on ourselves. Whether this is to avoid disappointment or assuming our needs are burdensome, we still need people to survive. In fact, humans have a biological need for social connection just as much as we need a home to sleep in and food to eat.
According to Stuart Wolpert of UCLA Newsroom, humans are biologically wired to connect, and as we’ve evolved, the more we’ve grown socially inclined. Being connected is an innate passion in our lives, without which our mental health could suffer significantly. However, according to the University of Michigan, avoiding feelings of loneliness without modern technology remains a challenge for many aging adults, particularly during COVID-19 restrictions.
What “Staying Connected” Really Looks Like
Staying connected doesn’t always mean long conversations or constant social activity. For many seniors, connection can be small, consistent, and deeply meaningful, such as:
- A short video call where you see a loved one’s face
- A daily text that says “Good morning” or “Thinking of you”
- Listening to familiar music and sharing memories with family
- Joining a virtual church service or community event
- Receiving photos of grandchildren, pets, or familiar places
These small touchpoints reduce isolation and create emotional stability. They also support cognitive health by keeping the brain engaged, especially when routines have been disrupted.
Why Isolation Can Feel Heavier During a Pandemic
COVID-era isolation wasn’t just “being home more.” It was the removal of predictability, freedom, and normal human contact. Many seniors experienced:
- Fewer visits from family
- Reduced access to senior centers or social groups
- Disruption in medical routines
- Less physical activity
- Increased anxiety about safety and health
Technology can’t fix everything, but it can restore an essential part of life: connection, communication, and routine.
Choosing the Right Devices
Choosing a device you’re comfortable with is paramount for setting yourself up for success.
Smartphone
While smartphones can be intimidating to a new user, with a bit of patience and a user-friendly model, reaching out to an old friend on FaceTime or Skype could be a click away. iPhones are notoriously easy to use as well as the Samsung Galaxy S20.
Expanding the Smartphone Option: Why It Works for Many Seniors
A smartphone can be a strong first step because it’s portable and designed for everyday communication. Once set up correctly, it can help seniors:
- Call family instantly without needing a landline
- Use video calls (FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp)
- Send texts for quick check-ins
- Share photos and receive family updates
- Use voice assistants (Siri or Google Assistant) for reminders
Helpful Smartphone Features for Aging Adults
Many seniors are surprised to learn smartphones have built-in tools that make them easier to use, such as:
- Larger text and bold fonts
- Voice typing (speak instead of type)
- Hearing support and volume boosters
- Emergency SOS calling features
- “Favorites” contact lists for easy one-touch calling
If you’re helping a parent or loved one, one of the best things you can do is simplify the phone: remove unused apps, organize the home screen, and place the most important contacts front and center.
Tablet
Tablets or iPads could be considerably more manageable for aging adults when compared to smartphones. Their larger size can make for more comfortable use and easier reading. Some excellent options are iPads and the Amazon Fire HD 10.
Why Tablets Are Often the “Sweet Spot”
For many older adults, tablets feel less frustrating than smartphones because everything is bigger: the screen, the keyboard, the buttons, and the visuals. Tablets are excellent for:
- Video calls with family
- Watching faith services online
- Reading news, books, or large-print content
- Viewing photos clearly
- Playing simple brain games
Tablets also support a calmer, less cluttered experience. Seniors can sit comfortably, set the device on a table, and interact without the strain of holding a small screen close to the face.
Practical Tips for Tablet Success
To make a tablet truly senior-friendly:
- Increase font size and brightness
- Use a stand so the device doesn’t need to be held
- Add a protective case for grip and safety
- Keep the home screen clean and organized
- Install only the apps that matter (video calling + a few favorites)
All-In-One Solutions
Amazon’s Echo Show is another great option to help you stay in touch. You can even begin a call without anyone answering the other end, as long as you set up special permissions beforehand. These all-in-one devices can be a smart solution to keep in touch with family and friends.
Why All-In-One Devices Reduce Stress
All-in-one devices are helpful for seniors who don’t want to “learn a bunch of apps.” Many older adults prefer devices that work by voice: “Call my daughter,” “Show me photos,” or “Play calming music.”
These devices can support daily quality of life by helping seniors:
- Hear the weather and daily news
- Set medication reminders
- Listen to music and reduce anxiety
- Make calls with little effort
- Maintain routine through scheduled reminders
A Simple Way to Reduce Loneliness
Even having a voice assistant in the home can reduce the emotional weight of living alone. It creates a sense of interaction and structure, especially for seniors who spend long periods without visitors.
Have Patience
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Loved ones are often pleased to connect and will likely be happy to show you how to use your new device. Give yourself grace and a generous timeline to learn so you don’t feel rushed.
Learning a new skill can be frustrating at any age. Remember that learning new technology is challenging for many people; it’s a common struggle, and you’re not alone. If you’re feeling impatient, keep in mind this effort is so you can stay connected with those you care about and take care of your mental health amidst a global health crisis.
What Patience Looks Like in Real Life
Patience means giving yourself permission to learn slowly. It also means making learning practical and repeatable. Instead of trying to learn everything at once, focus on one goal at a time, like:
- Answer a video call
- Make a video call
- Send a text
- Open and view photos
- Join a Zoom link
Small wins build confidence. Confidence builds consistency. And consistency turns technology into a normal part of daily life.
A Helpful “No Shame” Reminder
Some seniors feel embarrassed when they don’t understand devices quickly. Please remember: technology changes fast, even for younger adults. Not knowing something is not a weakness. It simply means you haven’t been taught in a way that fits your learning style.
Be Smart, Protect Yourself
A critical aspect to keep in mind is cybersecurity. Don’t enter your banking details without first verifying the legitimacy of a website. Identity theft is a real thing, and by neglecting online safety, people can steal valuable information.
A clever way to keep track and protect your passwords is a password manager or generator, like Google Passwords or LastPass. These allow you to access all your passwords with one master password, freeing you from multiple sticky notes with scribbled notes and letting you easily connect with family and friends.
Expanded Cybersecurity Tips for Seniors and Families
Online safety doesn’t need to be scary, but it does need to be taken seriously. Here are simple, realistic protections:
- Never share passwords over the phone or email
- Be cautious with links in texts or emails, especially “urgent” messages
- Avoid pop-ups that say your device is infected, close them and ask for help
- Use strong passwords and avoid repeating the same password everywhere
- Turn on two-factor authentication when possible
- Only download apps from official app stores
If a senior is new to technology, it can help to designate one trusted family member as the “tech helper” to reduce confusion and prevent scams.
Extra Ways Technology Can Improve Quality of Life
Technology isn’t only about calls. It can support a senior’s daily routine and independence in several meaningful ways.
Telehealth and Medical Support
Many providers offer virtual appointments. This can reduce stress from driving, waiting rooms, and exposure risks. Telehealth can support:
- Routine check-ins
- Medication reviews
- Mental health support
- Specialist follow-ups
Brain Engagement and Mental Stimulation
Simple apps and activities can support cognition and reduce boredom, such as:
- Puzzles and word games
- Music playlists from earlier decades
- Audiobooks for reduced eye strain
- Virtual museum or travel videos
Safety and Routine Support
Seniors can also use technology to maintain structure:
- Calendar reminders
- Medication alerts
- Grocery delivery or pickup tools
- Family group chats for daily support
When used correctly, technology can increase independence, not reduce it.
Why Choose A1 Senior Care Advisors
Families often reach out to A1 Senior Care Advisors because aging isn’t only about technology, or only about isolation, or only about safety. It’s usually a combination of many moving pieces, health changes, memory concerns, caregiver stress, and uncertainty about what comes next.
A1 Senior Care Advisors supports families by helping them understand senior living options and match needs to the right level of support. If technology challenges are part of a broader concern, such as loneliness, declining independence, or safety risks, we help families explore solutions that protect dignity and quality of life.
Why Families Choose A1 Senior Care Advisors
- Compassionate guidance during emotional decisions when families feel overwhelmed
- Clear education about senior living options and care levels
- Personalized recommendations based on a loved one’s needs, preferences, and safety concerns
- Support for caregiver stress, especially when families are managing everything alone
- A step-by-step approach that helps families move forward with clarity and confidence
Technology can help seniors stay connected, but when staying safe at home becomes difficult, families may need support to explore additional care options. Having an advisor in your corner makes the process more manageable and less stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is the easiest device for seniors to start with?
Many seniors do best with a tablet because the larger screen is easier to see and use. A smartphone can work well too, especially if it’s set up with simplified apps and large text. The “best” device is the one your loved one will actually feel comfortable using consistently.
2.How can I help my parent learn technology without overwhelming them?
Start with one goal at a time, like answering a video call or sending a short text. Keep instructions simple and repeatable, and avoid teaching too many steps in one sitting. Short practice sessions several times a week usually work better than one long lesson.
3.What are the biggest online safety risks for older adults?
The most common risks include scam emails, fake tech-support pop-ups, and suspicious links in texts. Seniors should avoid sharing personal information and should verify websites before entering any sensitive details. Having a trusted family member support online safety can also reduce risk.
4.What if my parent refuses to use technology?
Resistance is common, especially if technology feels confusing or frustrating. Try connecting it to something meaningful, like seeing grandchildren, attending a faith service online, or sharing photos. Sometimes the motivation to connect helps seniors become more open to learning.
5.How do I know when technology isn’t enough and more support is needed?
If you notice frequent loneliness, missed medications, unsafe living conditions, or increasing confusion, it may be time to explore additional care support. Technology can help with connection, but it cannot replace hands-on help when safety and health needs increase. A senior care advisor can help you evaluate next steps.
Conclusion
Learning new skills can be daunting, but keep in mind that learning a new skill at any age is challenging. Acquiring technology later in life is an admirable endeavor, especially when it’s for a cause as good as keeping in touch with your loved ones. The connections you maintain as a result of your research and patience will pay off in spades.
Technology is not about “keeping up.” It’s about protecting something essential, human connection. Whether it’s a short video call, a daily check-in text, or joining a virtual community event, these moments matter. They help seniors feel seen, valued, and supported, even during difficult seasons like a global pandemic.
Contact us
If you are a senior, or an adult child supporting an aging parent, and you feel overwhelmed by isolation, changing needs, or uncertainty about what comes next, A1 Senior Care Advisors is here to help. Whether your loved one needs resources to stay safe at home, help exploring senior living options, or guidance through the emotional decision-making process, our team can provide clear, compassionate direction.
A1 Senior Care Advisors
Call: 425-324-5592
Website: www.A1SeniorCareAdvisors.com
One more important reminder: you do not have to figure this out alone. With the right support, families can protect both safety and dignity while creating a healthier, more connected future.
