Technology for Seniors

1. Devices designed for seniors

Two devices tailor-made for seniors include the GrandPad, "a tablet for seniors" and KOMP, a simple videoconferencing system from No Isolation.

Both companies worked with older people to understand their needs. The GrandPad has a touch-sensitive screen, designed for the drier skin we develop as we age. For the same reason, KOMP features a button rather than a touchscreen.

2. GrandPad, a Tablet for Seniors

GrandPad designed its eight-inch tablet alongside older customers and said it aims the device at people aged 75 and over. 

"GrandPad was envisioned to address one major problem. Adults aged 75 plus are more disconnected or isolated than ever," said Geoff Rochford, GrandPad's Technical Support & Product Operations Specialist. 

It has a touch-sensitive screen which is more sensitive to dry touch because as we age, our skin gets driers and standard touchscreens tend to be less responsive. 

GrandPad includes simple one-touch buttons to access elements such as video conferencing and to connect to 24/7 support 365-days of the year.

Safety is paramount, and families can create a secure social network that will only include approved contacts (including family and friends who are caregivers). Only people within the trusted network that can communicate with the GrandPad and share photos and send emails.

Family administrators can customise the GrandPad to an individual’s needs. For example, they can remove features that might not fit the individual (for example, internet browser, games, etc.). There are also special features that can be turned on, such as Auto Answer and Speech-To-Text for video calls. 

The tablet is available in the UK to lease. There are no contracts, and the device can be returned at any time to end the service.

GrandPad’s UK retailer is TechSilver.

3. KOMP: a one-button computer for seniors

KOMP is the brainchild of No Isolation, which aims to “bring people together through warm technology.” 

No Isolation co-designed KOMP with older people, and it is explicitly designed to enable seniors to videoconference with loved ones.

"We went to a care home and met with the residents there about and talked to them about what would be the best piece of kit for them,” said George Howe from No Isolation. 

The KOMP resembles an old-style television or radio with a large screen about 17 inches across and just one button. The simplicity of KOMP makes it accessible to all, particularly those over the age of 80; people's fingertips can become dry and leathery, which can mean that touch screens won't work.

KOMP is a receiving device and requires loved ones to download the KOMP app. They can then initiate a video call with their loved one remotely. 

• Download KOMP app for Android
• Download KOMP app for iOS

KOMP is available to rent or to buy outright

4. KOMP Pro, designed for carers

No Isolation has also developed KOMP Pro specifically for people in care settings. KOMP Pro is an add-on piece of software for care providers, including care homes and domiciliary care agencies and local authorities. 

It works similarly to the family app and can also send reminders for medications or scheduled events such as a carer's visit. 

5. Mainstream devices for older people

Other devices offer videoconference and chat functions that are also suitable for older people.

These tend to provide greater functionality than the specific devices tailored to seniors. They may, therefore, be harder to learn. 

6. Amazon Echo Show

Part of Amazon’s Alexa family, the Echo Show allows you to make video calls. The latest version is the Echo Show 10 (launched 2020). It comes with a 10-inch screen that rotates with you as you interact with it or move around the room. 

You can use the Echo Show to videoconference with family and friends. Alexa Group Calling enables you to create a group of eight friends and family members.

Once set up, say "Alexa, call my family."

Echo Show 10 allows you to watch the news, and TV shows as well as video call. The screen rotates as you watch as it does during video-calling.

The Show includes a security feature. When Alexa Guard is in Away Mode, it will scan its field of view and send an alert if it detects someone in its field of view. You can turn off the motion by sliding the camera shutter closed or by adjusting settings. 

The Echo Show is available to buy from Amazon. 

7. Facebook Portal

Facebook's Portal devices have videoconferencing at their heart. The family includes Portal, Portal Mini and Portal TV. 

All include screens for video calling and to display photos or to watch videos. There's a smart, Artificially Intelligent camera and so – like Echo Show – it will pan and zoom, ensuring you're still in the frame. Smart Sound enhances the voice of whoever is speaking while minimising unwanted background noise.

You can disable the camera and microphone with a single tap for privacy or shut the camera off with the cover.  

The Portal includes Alexa for voice control.

Buy from retailers, including Amazon and Argos.

8. Adapting existing devices

Older people can use standard tablets, laptops, smartphones and computers. 

A stylus will help with touchscreens that might not work as well with dry fingertips. 

All devices have accessibility settings built-in, which you can adjust. 

Adjustments include changing on-screen colours, increasing text, operating the device using your voice, and more. 

Our FREE online tool My Computer My Way has tips on adjusting Android, iOS, and Windows devices.

You may wish to set the device up for an older family member. AbilityNet’s volunteers offer FREE support and help by getting a new device set up, including connecting to your wireless network. They can also help with ongoing issues.