How to Find Smartphone Classes For Seniors
- Learn how to use your cell phone with smartphone classes for seniors. Find out where you can find those classes so you can get the most out of your technology.
Advancements in modern tech such as cellphones are supposed to add ease to our lives and help us stay connected to those who matter most. But if you're not used to the technology, navigating countless apps and screen displays on a new smartphone can be confusing and frustrating.
Whether you use—or want to use—your phone to engage on social media or simply need to optimize it to best accommodate your needs, smartphone classes for seniors can help.
How Many Seniors Have a Smartphone?
According to AARP, around 77% of adults in America age 50 or over had a smartphone as of 2019. That number went down slightly for older age groups, but adoption was still above 50%.
Why Do So Many Seniors Have Smartphones?
Seniors get smartphones for many reasons. Here are just some of the common reasons older adults might want to learn how to use smartphones better:
- To stay connected with others via video conference apps
- To use social media applications without a computer
- To enjoy entertainment options such as games or videos
- To manage health issues with smartphone heart, BP or other monitors
- To stay organized with calendar, alarm and other apps
3 Ways to Find Smartphone Classes for Seniors
1. Online Classes
The quickest way to find smartphone classes for seniors is online. This is especially true in 2021 given the COVID-19 pandemic, as in-person classes may be limited.
There are plenty of free online platforms such as Skillful Senior and TechBoomers that are dedicated to providing training courses to older adults to help them use their smartphones. You may also be able to find classes offered by local libraries and other agencies. During times when these classes can't be held in person, many organizations are offering them via Zoom, Facebook Live or other online video platforms.
2. Contact Your Local Area Agency on Aging
If you're having trouble finding smartphone classes in your area, reach out to your Area Agency on Aging. These organizations often host free technology training events for older adults. They might also be able to help you find a smartphone class near you or guide you to more helpful resources.
You can search for Area Agency on Aging locations by city and state or zip code.
3. Purchase a Step-by-Step Guide
Maybe you're not looking to sign up for a smartphone program online or interested in attending an in-person class. You can still get help learning how to use your technology, though. Considering purchasing a guide on how to use your smartphone.
There are options available on most major online bookstores that ship within a few days, so you can get started learning more about your device quickly. A hardcopy guide can be a great option for older adults who might want to limit how much they use screens or make notes and highlight important information for later reference. However, you may also be able to find ebook guides to using your phone, and you can read those on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Smartphones are powerful tools that can enhance your life by providing for connection, entertainment and organization. Older adults who want to learn how to use these devices can easily find smartphone classes for seniors.
