This week we would like to share some of the best phone Apps available tailored to the elderly. There are literally millions of Mobile Apps available to download both free and paid. Therefore, it is wise to consider Apps for social media, music, movies, recipes, games, shopping and much more that align with your own interests.
How to Download an App
Firstly, to use an App, you need to download it onto your phone. Importantly, ensure that you are connected to the internet, either through WIFI or your Mobile Network.
To clarify, if you’re using an iPhone, apps are available from the App Store. Tap on the blue App store icon on your iPhone and search the name or the category of the App you wish to download. An Apple ID is needed to download and purchase apps on your iPhone.
Alternately, if you use phone such as a Samsung, Nokia, Sony, Huawei or LG then you will have what’s called an “Android” device. To download an App, select the Google Play Store icon on your phone. In other words, you will need to be signed-in with your Google Account, then choose your App and select Install to download.
Paid Apps
Whilst some Apps require an up-front fee to download, other Apps may be free to download but then have extra features that require payment to use. Normally you will receive a pop-up box asking for sign-in and verification of your Account before making a purchase.
Also, keep in mind that some free apps are supported by advertising, so to use that App you will be often interrupted by ads. Some will also charge a small one-off fee to remove ads.
To assist, below is a list of some handy Apps we have put together. And, whilst some of these are official Government Apps, others are chosen by searching specific categories. Therefore, please keep in mind, these Apps are by no means endorsed by us. We have included suggestions of what kinds of Apps are available.
Communication – Best Apps
Facebook and Instagram can be downloaded as Apps on your phone. Messenger for Facebook allows you to keep in touch with friends and family for free.
WhatsApp is a free messaging App to be used for text, pictures, video and calls. Above all, this App is popular and simple to use. It only uses a small amount of data to send and receive messages and it’s a great option for keeping in touch with family and friends overseas for free!
Emergency and Weather
VicEmergency is the official Victorian Government app for emergency warnings and information. Check for others in your state.
After that, BOM Weather – The Bureau of Meteorology’s official weather App, and in Victoria we love to talk about the weather!
Assistance Apps
BIG Phone for Seniors – everything on the screen is bigger helping those with vision problems. Android
Senior Safety Phone – Big Icons Launcher – transforms phone into an intuitive simple user-friendly interface. Android
Games and Puzzles
Train your Brain – Memory Games – Stimulating cognitive areas with senior games. Android
Words with Friends. – A step up from Scrabble allowing you to compete against family & friends
Safety & Tracking
Senior Safety App, GPS Tracker, Fall Alerts & More – SOS alerts, location, inactivity, calls & text tracking. Android
Health
Health Engine. Find, Book & Manage all your Healthcare Online. Android
Timeless | Care – Empowers those with Alzheimer’s reminding them of daily events.
iPhone Download
Senior Fitness – Home Workout for elderly people to increase flexibility. Android
Map My Walk – Customised Training Plans & Coaching Tips.
Food
Yummly – Shares over one million recipes matching your dietary requirements.
Cookpad. – Publish your own recipes or search by ingredient name or dish or communicate with other cooks becoming part of the community.
In summary, these are just a few App downloads to discover for the Elderly, that can bring hours of joy, education, and entertainment. Consequently, there are many more that fall into the category of ‘best apps for the elderly.’ Why not share some that your loved ones enjoy?
If you or a loved one requires assistance in entry to aged care, don’t hesitate to reach out: Contact – Trusted Aged Care Services
Take Care and Stay Safe.