“The more that you read, the more things you will know.
The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
Dr. Seuss
This is a quote from the Dr. Seuss book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”, which has been gifted to children and recent graduates alike to communicate the message that lifelong learning is the key to unlocking endless possibilities. The same also applies to older adults and keeping current with technology.
Many of today’s textbooks are now obsolete even before they’re published. The world is constantly changing, but technology allows us access to the most up-to-date information. Other benefits to learning how to use technology include:
- automating important reminders for appointments and medications through apps,
- facilitating access to information such as news, driving directions and store hours,
- increasing enjoyment through audio books, games and other apps, and
- decreasing isolation by contacting loved ones via facetime or skype.
Younger, tech savvy generations have a shorter learning curve afforded to them by virtue of being raised in a digital environment. However, many resources are available that are tailored to help older adults enter the realm of technology easily and at their own pace.
BlueHair Technology Group, bluehairtech.org, offers a full range of courses dealing with computers and smart devices. Many universities and colleges have adult education programs that include technology classes, and retail stores, like BestBuy and Apple, may offer training on devices purchased from them.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, keep current with industry trends.
- All technology companies have websites where you can sign up for newsletters.
- 9to5google.com offers breaking news on all things Google and Android.
- The New York Times runs a good column on new technology developments on Thursdays, as well as one on Saturdays called “Bits: Farhad’s and Mike’s Week in Tech”.
You can also subscribe to specialty newsletters with email updates through websites.
- Androidcentral.com provides developments relating to Android phones.
- Cnet.com has product reviews and advice.
- Groovypost.com offers daily updates only on Windows 10.
- Guidingtech.com offers a wide range of information.
- Iphonelife.com is the place to keep up with Apple technology.
- Makeuseof.com offers an array of advice on all aspects of technology.
- Techlicious.com is mostly focused on smart devices.
Of course, you’re always welcome to like and follow the Digital Device Doctor’s facebook page or website, digitaldevicedr.com, for frequent postings of new developments compiled from many sources.