Communication Technology for Seniors: Ways to Help Older Adults Stay Connected

Loneliness is a real problem for seniors, especially for those living alone. Research shows that social isolation can have significant negative effects on seniors, including greater risk of physical illness, cognitive decline, and dementia. 

Fortunately, technology has made it easier for older adults to communicate with the people they love. Below we explore some of the best tools that seniors can use to stay connected with family and friends and offer tips on how to introduce these technologies effectively.

5 Digital Tools to Keep Seniors Connected

Smartphones and Tablets

Older adults are no strangers to mobile devices. AARP’s 2024 tech report found that 89% of adults over the age of 50 owned smart phones and 59% owned tablets. Both rates were nearly the same for people aged 18-49, and seniors aged 70 and older were only a few percentage points behind everyone else. 

The reason for this growing trend is simple – smart phones and tablets give seniors near-instant access to their family and friends. These devices also give seniors some options on how they can communicate with loved ones, whether they decide to call, text, email, or reach out in some other way.

While smartphones and tablets are increasingly popular, they can still pose some problems for older adults. The following features can help make mobile devices easier for seniors to use.

• Large screens with a bright display for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Adjustable font sizes to make text more legible.
• Big buttons that are easier to press, especially for seniors with less mobility in their hands.
• Simple navigation that won’t overwhelm seniors with too many options.
• Good battery life so that the device will work for a while, even if someone forgets to recharge them.

Home Devices

While more seniors have adopted the use of smartphones and tablets, AARP’s technology report found that only 33% of older adults own a home assistant. The jump from a mobile device to a device like Google Home may be intimidating for some older adults, but these smart devices can be very beneficial for some seniors.

The most notable advantage of home devices is that they can make it easier for seniors to keep in touch with family. Voice-activated controls allow seniors to make hands-free calls and texts to family and friends. This capability is especially helpful for seniors with eyesight issues or problems with dexterity. Seniors can also enjoy other benefits, such as the ability to:

• Set reminders for appointments, medication, and other occasions.
• Create lists and share them with other people.
• Control other smart home devices, such as a Smart TV.

Video Calling

A conversation is great, but sometimes it’s nice to have a face-to-face chat with someone. Video calling platforms like FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom give seniors the ability to see their loved ones, even if they can’t physically be with them.

Video calls are a great option for seniors, especially if they have loved ones who live far away. Regardless of distance, having a video feed can help seniors stay connected in a variety of ways:

• Participate in birthdays, vacations, and other family gatherings.
• See loved ones during the holidays.
• Enjoy regular virtual visits with grandchildren and other loved ones.
• Join online classes, book clubs, and other group events.
• Experience other places while people are traveling.
• Enjoy face time when people are sick or can’t leave their home. 

Social Media

Social media use among seniors has steadily trended upwards in the past decade, with Facebook being the most popular platform for older adults. According to a 2024 report from Pew Research Center, 58% of people aged 65 and older have used Facebook at some point. Other platforms like Instagram are less common, but still offer plenty of potential for seniors to stay connected with loved ones.

One of the most attractive benefits of social media for seniors is that it helps them keep tabs on loved ones, even if those loved ones aren’t the type of people to regularly call or text them. Social media allows seniors to see what people share, allowing them to see what they’re doing, what they’re interested in, and other insights into their day-to-day lives. It also allows seniors to share their own updates if that interests them.

Another great benefit of social media is that it can help seniors rekindle old friendships or discover new people to follow. It’s common for distant relatives, old classmates, and other people to seemingly disappear over time. Social media can help seniors find these people, giving them new connections that can become a regular part of their lives.

Digital Frames

Staying connected with loved ones doesn’t always have to involve talking to them. Digital frames give seniors a way to have their family and friends present even when they aren’t available. 

Digital frames are like classic framed photos, except that they display a rotating gallery of cherished memories. Seniors can upload their own photos from their mobile device so that they can also have visual reminders of loved ones nearby. Other people can add photos as well, allowing aging adults to see fun family photos, pictures from vacations, and any other images that seniors can enjoy in their own home.

How to Introduce Technology to Seniors

Tools are great, but they won’t help if people don’t use them. There are a variety of reasons why seniors are hesitant to use communication tools ranging from difficulty understanding technology to skepticism about how much they can help. 

Regardless of the reason, it can take some time to help loved ones adopt a new tool. This hesitation is completely natural – change can be uncomfortable. Consider these tips when helping your loved one adopt new tools.

• Start with their interests. Choose devices or apps that naturally align with their hobbies or needs so that they’re more inclined to give them a chance.
• Keep it simple. Begin with basic functions and gradually introduce more features as your loved one becomes more comfortable with the tool.
• Be patient. The learning process can be stressful for both you and your loved one, but your support makes a massive difference. Allow plenty of time for learning and practice.
• Provide written instructions. Create step-by-step guides with large print for reference. These instructions can help seniors become less reliant on outside help as they learn how to use new technology.
• Adjust tools as needed. Default settings don’t always keep older users in mind. Set up devices with larger text, higher contrast, and voice control when possible.
• Address security concerns. New users are more prone to online scams and other dangers. Teach them about online safety and privacy settings.
• Offer ongoing support. New issues can arise over time, so check in regularly to answer questions and provide assistance. That help can make a world of difference for a new user who isn’t comfortable with technology.

Fostering Connections Through Digital Technology for Seniors

With a little patience and the right approach, technology can give seniors the means to combat loneliness and foster meaningful connections across generations. Seniors don’t need to master every new gadget – but finding a few right solutions can enhance their quality of life and strengthen relationships.

However, not all seniors have access to these tools. Research shared by the National Library of Medicine indicates that internet use among low-income older adults may be as low as 17% due to a lack of digital access and literacy. That lack of equitable access is why National Church Residences is leading efforts to improve digital connectivity for older adults. Seniors deserve to have the means to build more meaningful human connections, and the technology can help them stay connected as they enjoy their golden years.

National Church Residences support better living for seniors wherever they call home. Discover how we can help seniors maintain their ideal lifestyle and stay connected, whether they want to find the right community for them or need support where they currently live.

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