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Devices That Connect Seniors Online: Finding the Right Technology for Your Needs

Choosing your first device—or upgrading to something new—can feel overwhelming when you're not sure where to start. The good news is that several types of devices work well for different people, depending on what you want to do online and how comfortable you feel with technology. Understanding the strengths of each option helps you pick something that fits your actual needs rather than trying to force yourself into technology that doesn't match your lifestyle.

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Tablets have become one of the most popular choices for older adults. A tablet like an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab sits between a smartphone and a computer in size, making it easier to read text and see images without straining your eyes. The screen is typically 8 to 12 inches, which many people find more comfortable than a phone's smaller display. Tablets work well for reading the news, looking at photos sent by grandchildren, watching videos, or checking email. They're lighter than laptops, so you can hold them comfortably in your lap or on a table while sitting. Many tablets last several days on a single charge, which means less time hunting for a charger. The cost ranges from $150 to $600 depending on the brand and features, and many models come with customer support lines if you run into problems.

Smartphones like iPhones and Android phones fit in your pocket and go with you everywhere. If you already carry a phone, it might already have the capability to video call, check weather, or look up information. Modern smartphones have large screens compared to older models—some are 6 inches or bigger—and you can make text and buttons larger if your vision needs adjustment. The downside is that some people find the screen too small for extended reading, and typing on a phone keyboard takes practice. Smartphones work particularly well if you want to stay connected while out of the house or if you travel frequently.

Laptop or desktop computers give you the largest screen and full keyboard, which many people prefer for longer activities like managing finances, writing emails, or doing research. A desktop computer sits in one place—your desk or table—and doesn't need charging as long as it stays plugged in. A laptop is portable but heavier than a tablet. Computers offer more flexibility and power for complex tasks, but they also have a steeper learning curve if you've never used one before. New computers range from $300 to $1,500, and many libraries offer used computers at lower prices.

When choosing a device, consider what you'll use it for most. If you mainly want to see family videos and stay in touch through photos, a tablet might be perfect. If you need a full keyboard for writing or managing finances, a computer could be better. If you want something portable for occasional use, a smartphone might be the right fit. Many people find that having two devices works best—perhaps a tablet for casual browsing and a computer for detailed tasks. Your local library or senior center may have devices you can try before buying, which removes the guesswork from your decision.

Practical takeaway: Visit your local library or senior center and ask to see different devices in action. Spend 10 minutes holding a tablet, using a keyboard, and tapping a phone screen. Pay attention to what feels comfortable in your hands and what size text you can read easily. This real-world test will tell you more than any description.

Video Calling and Staying in Touch: Tools That Bring Family Closer

Video calling transforms how you stay connected with loved ones who live far away. Instead of just hearing a voice on the phone, you can see your grandchild's face while they tell you about their day, watch a family member's reaction when you share news, or feel more present at celebrations you can't attend in person. Several free or low-cost apps make video calling straightforward, even if you've never done it before.

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FaceTime is built into all iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. If your family members also use Apple devices, FaceTime works without downloading anything extra. You simply open the app, select a contact, and tap the video camera icon. The connection is usually clear and stable. One benefit of FaceTime is that it often feels simpler than other apps because it's already on your device. However, FaceTime only works between people using Apple products, so if your grandchildren use Android phones or computers, you'll need a different option for calling them.

Google Meet and Zoom are two popular apps that work across all types of devices and computers. Both apps let you video call one person or have a group call with multiple family members at the same time. You can use them on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. To use Google Meet, you need a Google account (which is free to create), and to use Zoom, you need a Zoom account (also free). Some people prefer Google Meet because it's included free with Gmail accounts. Others like Zoom because it has features that make it easy for one person to share their screen, showing a photo album or document to everyone else on the call. Both apps have free options—Google Meet lets you have unlimited one-on-one calls, while Zoom allows up to 40 minutes of free group calls. If you want longer group calls, both offer paid plans starting around $10 per month.

WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are messaging apps that also include video calling. WhatsApp is popular worldwide and works reliably in most locations. Facebook Messenger is built into Facebook, so if you already have a Facebook account, you can video call from there. Both apps are free. The advantage of these apps is that they integrate messaging and calling—you can send photos and text messages in the same app where you make video calls, keeping all your communication in one place.

Setting up video calling involves a few simple steps: create an account with the app you choose, find your family members in the app's contact list (or share your own information with them), and practice by calling someone you know well. Many senior centers offer free practice sessions where you can try video calling with an instructor present. This removes the worry about making mistakes and helps you become confident before calling family members.

For the best video calling experience, make sure you have good lighting facing your face (so the camera can see you clearly), sit a comfortable distance from the device (about 12-18 inches away), and position the camera at eye level or slightly above. Close background apps on your device to improve connection speed, and connect to your home WiFi network rather than using mobile data when possible. If you're on a tablet or computer, prop it up so you don't have to hold it steady the entire call.

Practical takeaway: Ask a family member which app they use most, then install that same app on your device. Schedule a practice call with them for a specific time (like "Tuesday at 2pm"). Having a planned call takes the pressure off and gives you a chance to ask questions if something doesn't work. Most technical issues resolve by restarting the app or device.

Safety and Scam Protection Tips: Keeping Your Personal Information Secure Online

Using the internet comes with real risks, but understanding common scams gives you powerful tools to protect yourself. Scammers specifically target older adults because they often have savings, good credit, and a generation-wide trust in authority figures. Learning to recognize scams isn't about being paranoid—it's about being informed and cautious in the same way you might lock your doors or check a restaurant review before eating there.

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One of the most common scams is the "tech support" scam. You're browsing the internet or checking email when a pop-up message appears claiming your device has a virus or security problem. The message urges you to call a phone number or click a link to fix it. These are almost always scams. Real security warnings come from your device's official settings, not from random pop-ups. Legitimate companies like Apple, Microsoft, or Google do not contact you through pop-ups. If you see one of these messages, close the pop-up by clicking the X button in the corner, don't click anything inside the pop-up message, and don't call any number shown in the pop-up. If you're worried about actual security on your device, contact your device's official support line by looking up the number yourself rather than using a number from the pop-up.

Romance scams target people looking for companionship. Someone creates a fake profile on a dating site or social media platform and builds a relationship with you over weeks or months. Eventually, they claim to have an emergency—medical bills, travel costs to meet you, business problems—and ask you to send money. Once you send money, they disappear and create a new fake profile to target someone else. A red flag is when someone you've never met in person asks for money for