Tips for buying seniors a device at Christmas
As we head into Christmas, many families may be thinking about buying or upgrading a smart device for Mum, Dad or the Grandparents. It’s a great idea to help keep your family connected and give your loved one access to online services. But do your homework first.
In our work with seniors, we’ve helped many who have been gifted or sold devices that don’t suit their needs or they lack the support needed to confidently use the technology. Here are 9 things to consider when choosing a smart device as a gift.
What do they enjoy and how will the device be used? Take the time to gather this information – it will help ensure that your loved one will engage with the device and that it will meet their needs. You’ll also be better placed to narrow down your options. Understand if it will be used for games, taking photos, reading, accessing services, watching movies, staying in touch with family or something else? As an example, you might need more storage if movies are downloaded to watch while not connected to the internet.
How suitable is the experience and functionality of the device? We believe the user experience is the most important element to consider. Look carefully at the accessibility functions that will make the device much easier to use. Simple things like font sizes, connecting to hearing aids, and colour contrasts make a world of difference. This also applies to home assistant devices like Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo or Google Home. The small things will make a huge difference for your older loved ones to actually use them.
What should you consider in your overall budget? You can now get devices that meet all budgets. However, it is essential to consider the initial device cost along with ongoing costs, quality, security, storage, data, functionality and support.
Where will it be used? If the device is to be carried around or to travel with, think about things like weight, size and battery life. Does it need a cover or keyboard? What size smartphone will be easiest for your loved one to carry around to ensure they don’t leave it at home?
What existing technology and plans are already in place? Too often we see people with a SIM enabled iPad with an additional data plan, but they already have WiFi at home and a mobile phone that has a good data plan. The additional data is overkill and a waste of money if they are only using the device at home.
What are the return policies and warranties? Ask about the return policy. Remember, if you’ve been given incorrect advice about the product you should be able to return it. Also check about the product warranty.
What support is needed? Think about what support is needed both to set up the device initially as well as the ongoing support. If the individual is fairly new to smart devices, providing them with patient help and support in the first couple of weeks and months will be essential in building confidence. Remember that most modern hearing aids are able to be bluetoothed to smart devices – this could transform their experience. Read our tips on helping seniors to use Zoom and get the best from the camera function.
What do other family members and friends use? There are good features that can be taken advantage of when using the same devices within a family group. For example FaceTime can be used between all Apple devices. Having the same platforms within a family unit also helps when it comes to supporting your loved one with any user issues.
Do you feel confident with the language a retailer may use? If you aren’t confident, please go in with a trusted advocate, family member or friend who understands the language and technology. It is very easy to be sold something because it is on sale, the latest thing or they believe you ‘need’ it without considering your personal circumstances.
We’d love to hear your experiences and learnings with gifting a senior a smart device, what worked, what didn’t? And good luck with your Christmas shopping, we hope these tips are of help.