Relatives do not always live in close proximity, so smartphones and tablets are useful for keeping in touch with the family. But the technical aids represent a major challenge, especially for senior citizens.
Nowadays, more and more children are growing up with mobile devices, so they are usually even more familiar with the latest technology than their own parents. For grandparents, on the other hand, smartphones and tablets are something completely foreign, which many of them do not feel up to – and therefore do not make use of them. The functionality seems too complicated to them, and the prices are too high for some. Not to mention the operation of a touchscreen, which is anything but easy for seniors. But especially when it comes to making contact with children, grandchildren or friends (which is certainly even more difficult in Corona times than before), tablets are a practical solution for older people. Especially since there are also devices that have been specially developed for seniors: such as this . You can find out what advantages a mobile PC offers and what you should pay attention to when purchasing it as follows.
These are the advantages of a tablet for the elderly
When grandparents do not have the opportunity to visit their loved ones, a tablet is the best solution to see their family live via video chat. In contrast to a smartphone, the mobile PC has a significantly larger display, which is a real advantage for older people with poor eyesight. In addition, it is easier to use because the apps are also easier to recognize. And that’s not all: a tablet for seniors offers older people meaningful employment opportunities for a varied everyday life.
- You can play games, watch series and films, read books, send messages and view photos on it. The mobile PC is particularly practical with the last three points, as the screen can be enlarged and reduced with a simple tap – which is certainly important for elderly people with poor eyesight.
- By eliminating a mouse or keyboard, seniors do not have to worry about possible accessories. The tablet is only operated with the fingers, so that it can be used anywhere: sitting, standing and lying down. This is certainly a great advantage for people who are restricted in their mobility.
- It is also easy to charge the tablet: if the battery is full, the mobile device can be used for several hours – without any cables. This means that it can be taken anywhere and also used on the go, as long as the PC is connected to a WLAN. Some apps even work without the internet.
Media4Care: The tablet for seniors – briefly explained
Out of love for his grandfather suffering from dementia, Marc Engels developed a tablet suitable for the elderly: . The device, which is equipped with simple communication functions, is primarily intended to simplify video telephony, sending and receiving messages and images for older people. This is made possible by particularly large tiles on the display that are easy to use. In addition to a comprehensive collection of over 700 memory-enhancing games and puzzles that are preinstalled on the tablet, the device also contains age-appropriate fairy tales, videos and music. The video telephony program specially developed for this tablet should – according to the manufacturer – be particularly easy to use. Seniors have the opportunity to get in touch with friends and relatives. But that’s not all that Media4Care has to offer. The main advantages that distinguish the tablet from conventional devices for seniors include the following:
- quick and easy setup in just a few steps
- easy to use thanks to six pre-installed apps
- large texts and clear symbols make it easy to read
- robust, lightweight housing and long battery life
- Fast surfing via WLAN or SIM card possible
You can find out more about this topic directly from the manufacturer, where you can also take out additional equipment insurance in the event of damage and receive regular software and security updates for the Media4Care.
Tablet for seniors: what to look out for
In addition to the Media4Care, there are of course other tablets that were not specially developed for seniors, but are still suitable for older people. In addition to the question of price, you should pay particular attention to ease of use when purchasing. It is also important that the font can be enlarged and the microphone reinforced – because when it comes to seeing and hearing in old age, many seniors are already significantly more restricted than young people.
You should also make sure that your tablet – if a mobile internet connection is required for on the go – has been equipped with a SIM card slot. Otherwise it must at least be internet-enabled via a WLAN connection. If the mobile PC is to be used primarily for video telephony with friends and family members or caregivers, a front and a rear camera are required. The operating system (iOS or Android) does not matter here.
Last but not least, seniors need the help of their family when they buy a regular tablet. Most devices also have pre-installed apps, but when it comes to communication channels such as Skype or WhatsApp, these must first be installed on the mobile device after purchase. Here it is easier for everyone involved if older people only get the tablet after all apps have been downloaded and clearly listed on the display.
And two more tips at the end: To the To make it easier, there are understandable step-by-step instructions in book form. It can help older people familiarize themselves with the topics of telephoning, emailing, surfing, photos, music, videos, WiFi and data protection. In addition, the acquisition of a recommended so that the device does not have to be held with both hands at all times. Most models can be set individually and thus make calling and surfing a lot easier.
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
