For many of our clients, technology can feel like unfamiliar territory. Touchscreens, online forms, and jargon can be terrifying. Yet more and more are discovering how digital skills can support everyday life, including staying in touch with loved ones, accessing services, and feeling more confident at home. Our home care professionals working across West Sussex are seeing this shift first-hand. Technology can become a helpful companion, offering reassurance, choice, and sometimes even a little fun. In this article, we’ll share tips to help you get to grips with technology.
Learning any new skill later in life takes patience, but it’s much easier when you’ve got the proper support. Several brilliant local organisations in West Sussex offer help specifically aimed at older residents.
West Sussex Libraries often run Digital Drop-ins where staff and volunteers are on hand to help with anything from setting up an email account to using the NHS app. You can arrange support by booking an appointment through your local library. Find a list of libraries and the times you can book appointments HERE.
AbilityNet provides free digital skills training for disabled adults and people aged 55 and over in Sussex. Their friendly team of Digital Skills trainers can offer one-to-one or group sessions, covering topics like using smartphones or tablets, staying safe online, and accessing public services. Find out more HERE.
The Selsey Community Forum Help Hubs. Vitale Home Care Professionals help run these free support hubs. Although not specifically technology help, volunteers can help with form filling and applications. If these are online forms, bring your tablets or mobile devices along, and we’ll try to assist you.
If you prefer to learn in the comfort of your home, your Home Care Professional can help. And finally, don’t forget to seek help from your grandchildren!
Technology doesn’t have to be complicated. Many devices are thoughtfully designed for older users, making the learning curve much less steep.
Phones such as the Doro 8100 and the Emporia Smart.5 are popular choices for those who want the benefits of a smartphone without the fiddly features. They come with larger buttons, clearer displays, and louder speakers.
Tablets, such as the HaloPad, are also becoming favourites. Designed especially for older people, it’s an easy-to-use, secure tablet that helps them stay connected with family and engaged with the world without the complexity of modern technology.
PC accessories like large-print keyboards and amplified headphones can be beneficial for people with vision or mobility challenges.
One of the barriers for older people isn’t the technology itself; it’s confidence. Many are concerned about “breaking” something or doing something wrong. But the truth is, the more you try, the easier it becomes.
A great way to build confidence is by using technology for something enjoyable. Video calling a grandchild, watching a favourite programme on iPlayer, or looking up old photos can turn a learning experience into a joyful one. Enjoy the benefits of embracing technology, one small step at a time.
Older people across West Sussex are proving it’s never too late to learn. With the proper support, simple devices, and a little encouragement, technology can help you live the life you love, whether staying in touch with loved ones, accessing services more easily, or simply enjoying the little things online.
