Getting a Computer Set up for a Senior

Today’s world has become reliant on the Internet, which means that a person should have computer skills to keep up. For some seniors, getting these computer skills can be challenging. There are a number of ways, however, that seniors can benefit from using a computer, such as finding activities in their area or staying connected with family in friends. A computer has a number of settings that will allow the senior to optimize the computer to fit their needs. An elderly care provider or family member should take the time to help get the senior set up with a computer, including how to navigate it. Here are a few of the ways seniors can optimize a computer for their individual use.

Adjust the Screen Resolution
One of the first things that a senior needs to do when trying to get a computer ready for use is to adjust the screen resolution. By adjusting aspects such as the brightness and sharpness on the screen, it will be much easier for a senior to see text. The time that is spent adjusting these types of settings on a computer will be more than worth it in the end. Be sure to consult with a professional if unsure about how to do this type of adjustment.

Make things bigger
When trying to make a computer senior-friendly, it is best to make the print and icons bigger. Having the display elements larger than normal on a computer will help seniors navigate their way around the computer a lot easier. There are a number of different software programs out there that will allow a senior to completely customize the look and size of the icons on their computer. The money that is invested in this type of software will be more than worth it in the end.

Choose the right browser
When trying to make a computer more accessible for a senior, choose the right Internet browser. Choosing a browser like Google Chrome will allow seniors to have everything they need at their fingertips because this browser supports most Internet sites. This type of accessibility will help the senior to navigate their way around various parts of the internet.

Get help
Once the computer is set up as senior friendly, it’s time for the senior to learn how to use it with the help of his or her elderly care provider. Start off slow, maybe an hour a day showing the senior how to use the computer’s features and explore the Internet and then have him do these tasks themselves. People learn quickly so the senior should be navigating like a pro in no time.

If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home senior care in Lafayette Hill, PA, contact the caring professionals at Reliant At Home Care today (610) 674-6860.