Technology for Seniors

Technology for Senior Australians

Gone are the days when technology was considered a young person’s game. Today, more and more senior Australians are embracing digital tools to connect, learn, shop, entertain, and manage their health. Whether you’re new to the digital world or want to brush up on your skills, this guide from Silver Lifestyle is here to help you explore technology in a relaxed, supportive way—at your own pace.

We’ll walk you through everything from smartphones and tablets to video calling, online banking, social media, and internet safety. No jargon. No pressure. Just practical, friendly advice designed especially for older Australians.

Why Technology Matters for Older Australians

Let’s face it—technology is everywhere. From Medicare and MyGov to booking a holiday or keeping up with the grandkids, digital literacy is becoming essential. But it’s not just about keeping up—it’s about living better.

• Stay connected: Chat face-to-face with family anywhere in the world.
• Stay informed: Get news, health updates and weather in real time.
• Stay entertained: Watch shows, play games, read books—all online.
• Stay independent: Order groceries, pay bills and make appointments from home.
• Stay secure: Learn how to avoid scams and protect your privacy.

Technology shouldn’t be intimidating. With the right guidance, it becomes a wonderful tool that opens up new possibilities every day.

Getting Started: Devices Made Easy

Smartphones and Tablets

These handy devices are gateways to the digital world. For many seniors, tablets like iPads or Android devices are easier to handle than laptops because of their touch screens and larger icons.

• Set text to large size in Settings for easier reading.
• Use voice commands (e.g. “Hey Siri” or “OK Google”) to search hands-free.
• Install useful apps for news, weather, health, and games.

Laptops and Desktop Computers

If you enjoy typing, want a bigger screen, or plan to write documents, email or research, a laptop or desktop might be the way to go. Consider user-friendly operating systems like Windows or MacOS, and add accessibility settings like text enlargement or dictation.

Smart TVs and Streaming Devices

Watching your favourite shows is easier than ever. With smart TVs or plug-in devices like Google Chromecast or Apple TV, you can access ABC iview, SBS On Demand, Netflix and more—right from your lounge room.

How to Access the Internet

To go online, you’ll need an internet connection. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Home Wi-Fi: Provided by a broadband company (like Telstra, Optus, or TPG). It connects your devices wirelessly to the internet.
• Mobile Data: Comes with smartphones and tablets that use SIM cards. Useful when you’re out and about.
• Public Wi-Fi: Available at libraries, shopping centres and cafés. Great in a pinch, but be cautious when entering passwords or banking info on public networks.

Learning the Basics – And Building Confidence

Free Classes and Support

You don’t have to learn alone. Across Australia, there are dozens of wonderful programs offering free or low-cost help with technology:

• Be Connected (beconnected.esafety.gov.au): A fantastic Australian Government initiative with free courses on everything from email to avoiding scams.
• Tech Savvy Seniors: Run by libraries and TAFEs in several states, offering hands-on workshops for older people.
• U3A and Neighbourhood Houses: Often run digital literacy courses with friendly local tutors.

Start with the Essentials

• Turning your device on and off
• Using a touch screen or mouse
• Connecting to Wi-Fi
• Using apps and searching the web
• Sending and reading email

It’s okay to repeat things as often as you need. That’s how real learning happens!

Top Tech Activities for Seniors

1. Video Calling

One of the biggest joys of modern technology is video calling. Stay in touch with children, grandchildren and friends—even if they’re on the other side of the world.

• Zoom: Great for group chats and online classes.
• FaceTime: Perfect for Apple users.
• WhatsApp or Messenger: Free calls and messages using your mobile number or Facebook account.

2. Online Shopping

Order groceries, birthday gifts or that special cardigan—all from home. Major stores like Woolworths, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, and Kmart have easy-to-use online shops.

3. Watching TV and Movies

Explore on-demand entertainment:

• ABC iview & SBS On Demand: Free Aussie TV and documentaries.
• Netflix, Prime Video & Stan: Subscription services with endless choices.
• YouTube: Watch music, how-to videos, classic shows and more—for free.

4. Reading and Listening

• Kindle and eBooks: Read on your tablet or eReader with adjustable fonts.
• BorrowBox & Libby: Borrow digital books and audiobooks from your local library.
• Podcasts: Listen to stories, news or comedy on demand. Try the ABC Listen app.

5. Games and Brain Training

Crosswords, Sudoku, puzzles, and word games are available in digital form and can help keep your brain sharp. Popular apps include:

• Words With Friends
• Solitaire
• Elevate (brain training)
• Jigsaw Puzzle apps

Staying Safe Online

Common Risks

• Scams: Fake emails or texts that try to trick you into giving out personal info.
• Phishing: Messages that look like they’re from banks or government but are not.
• Malware: Harmful software that gets installed when you click unsafe links.

Online Safety Tips

• Never click on suspicious links or attachments.
• Use strong passwords—avoid using names or birthdates.
• Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts (like banking).
• Log out of public computers after use.
• Use antivirus software and update your device regularly.

The Australian Government’s ScamWatch website is a helpful place to check if something seems dodgy.

Online Health Tools

Digital health services can help you manage appointments, prescriptions and records from home:

• My Health Record: Securely stores your health info online, accessible by your GP or hospital.
• Telehealth: Book online consultations with doctors, specialists or psychologists.
• eScripts: Receive electronic prescriptions straight to your phone or email.

Most pharmacies and clinics are happy to help seniors with digital systems—just ask!

Social Media for Seniors

Used wisely, social media can bring people closer. You can stay in touch, share photos, join interest groups and find like-minded communities.

• Facebook: The most popular platform for seniors—easy to share, comment and keep up with family.
• Instagram: Great for viewing photos and short videos (especially from the grandkids!).
• YouTube: Watch videos, subscribe to channels and even learn new hobbies.

Just remember to keep your privacy settings strong and only connect with people you know and trust.

Smart Technology Around the Home

Technology can make everyday life safer and more comfortable:

• Smart speakers: Devices like Google Nest or Amazon Alexa let you ask questions, play music or set reminders by voice.
• Smart plugs: Turn appliances on or off using your phone or voice.
• Home security: Doorbell cameras and smart locks offer peace of mind.
• Medication reminders: Use apps or smart pillboxes to stay on track.

Helpful Technology for Accessibility

Many seniors live with hearing loss, vision impairment, or mobility limitations. Fortunately, there’s assistive technology to help:

• Screen readers: Read text aloud for those with low vision.
• Captions: Enable subtitles on video calls and TV shows.
• Voice-to-text: Speak instead of typing on phones and computers.
• Smart hearing aids: Connect to devices for clearer audio in conversations and media.

NDIS or My Aged Care funding may be available for some assistive technologies—speak to your coordinator or support worker.

Technology Tips from Fellow Seniors

• Jean, 72: “I was scared of using a tablet, but now I FaceTime my daughter in Canada every week. It’s changed everything.”
• Tom, 78: “I joined a Tech Savvy Seniors class at the local library. I learned how to spot scams, and now I help my mates stay safe online.”
• Nora, 69: “I love audiobooks! BorrowBox is free through the library and I listen while gardening.”

Where to Go for Ongoing Help

Don’t be afraid to ask for support. There’s no shame in not knowing something—technology is always changing, even for the experts!

• Contact your local library or neighbourhood centre
• Join a seniors’ tech group or Facebook community
• Ask family or friends to guide you patiently
• Use live chat support from Be Connected

Your Digital Journey Starts Here

Technology doesn’t need to be scary, overwhelming or frustrating. With the right help and a little practice, it becomes a powerful companion that helps you stay independent, informed, and connected with the world around you.

At Silver Lifestyle, we’re here to cheer you on, every step of the way. So why not pick one thing today—whether it’s sending an email, joining a video call, or exploring a new app—and give it a go? You might just discover a whole new world waiting for you online.