Four Tips for Gaining Tech Confidence

By Megan Seckman


If tweets and streaming and airdrops sound like essential vocabulary for hikers, you may be on the wrong side of the technology mountain. With the rapid paces in which technology advances these days, the reluctance to climb your way out of the bygone valley is understandable. Change is hard, but being left behind is a worse scenario by far. If you or a loved one are finally ready to tackle the basics of technology, never fear. There is a convenient and non-threatening place to learn the basics right here in Louisville: at your local public library. Seth Cohen leads several LFPL technology classes and says many seniors take advantage of the services the library provides.

Have you tried Pinterest?

A screenshot showing a search for “gardening” on Pinterest.

Social media might be intimidating for some seniors to try, but studies have shown it can strengthen cognitive health in seniors and can lower blood pressure in those who have frequent positive interactions on it. One social media site, Pinterest, can be especially helpful for seniors who are interested in staying active and finding inspiration for hobbies. Read on to find out the pros and cons of Pinterest.

3 great apps to try today

The advancement of personal technology has been racing over the past years, and it can be difficult to keep up. But investing in the right technology can be a rewarding and fun decision, says Shawn Apostel, an IT professional and assistant professor at Bellarmine University.

“Studies show that people who keep in touch, keep their brains active, and keep their bodies moving are more likely to...

Why you should try using a tablet

“Studies show that people who keep in touch, keep their brains active, and keep their bodies moving are more likely to live longer, happier lives,” says Shawn Apostel, an IT professional and assistant professor at Bellarmine University. “Since many senior citizens are retired and don’t have the daily routine that comes with working a traditional job, I’d recommend using technology as a way to stay connected and stay mentally and physically fit.”

One modern device you might want to consider investing in is the tablet. Apostel and Matthew Coddington, a mobile applications consultant at Humana, help you determine which tablet might be right for you and the best apps to use on it.

The Spring Issue is Out!

Ahhh.. take a breath of fresh spring air – finally! – and enjoy our new issue!

Read about:

• How to make your home safe for aging-in-place
• How to start keeping a journal
• Deliciously easy snacks you can pick up today
• What technology would be right for you to try
• Tips and tricks for caregivers and as always, our exclusive local directories of care options
• And more!

How to Take an At-Home Retreat

Would you like to unplug and get away this winter? You don’t have to fly to Florida. Try some ideas for a rejuvenating at-home retreat from contributing editor Lucy Pritchett.

Say ‘hi’ on Skype - and other tech to try

Residents at The Villas of Guerin Woods, a nursing facility in Southern Indiana, are learning how to use the Internet to stay connected with family members. Their computer technology, called iN2L (It’s Never 2 Late) allows users to connect with loved ones through email and Skype, listen to or play music, find new interests, rekindle old hobbies, or watch their favorite movies.

You can also use the Internet to connect with your senior loved ones or a person you are caregiving for. Try these ideas: