Nearly 84% of older Australians now own a smartphone. Smartphones can act as mini televisions or live radios, they support video chats with family and friends, and speak to us on command with the time and weather, and play the music we love. They can monitor our health, remind us when to take our medications, and enable us to engage in learning new things.

There is little that smartphone, tablets (e.g. iPads) can’t do!

This progressive technology allows users to download and access thousands of apps (applications) that open a world of connectivity and possibility.

How to find and download apps to your device
There are two main channels to find apps, either on the App Store (for Apple iPhone and iPad) or Google Play (for Android, like Samsung). Both platforms provide search tools and rank apps according to relevancy or popularity.

Apps can be free, free with ‘in-app purchases’, or incur a relatively small fee. Any charges will be advertised next to the app information. The authority to charge the user will be asked before that step is completed.

Free apps are usually public service apps, government apps or businesses that streamline their offer to their customers.

In-app purchases are when the app is free, but there will be incentives to purchase something or upgrade. Examples include game apps where additional features come at a small fee or streaming apps that remove advertisements for a small fee. Fees are only charged when agreed by the user.

Read all information before agreeing to pay for upgrades or an in-app purchase to know what you’re buying and ensure you have your security settings requiring a password to enable each individual purchase, otherwise you may purchase something unwittingly.

How to find apps safely and securely
As there are thousands of apps available, with new ones constantly appearing (and old ones disappearing), it is sound practice to have a checklist on hand before downloading to your device. Some things to consider include:

• Ensure apps are only accessed from one of the two main platforms. This will help to ensure they are trustworthy.
• Look for reviews and ratings. Apps on the App Store or Google Play will have a rating from current/past users and useful feedback. Reading the feedback will be time well spent. Users are generous in sharing their experiences, and it’s a trusted way to make sure the product does what it says it will.
• Choose recognised business names and government bodies. All major businesses and government organisations that engage with consumers have apps to service people. If seeking information on public transport, the health system, or car registration (for example), choose the organisation you know, rather than a third-party operator.
• As always with online services, be careful whom you give your personal information to and in what way

Using apps on your device
Apps are easily managed so as not to make your device overwhelming. They appear like buttons that can be moved around and ordered to make them easy to find.

Sorting apps is also recommended to ensure any essential apps, like those connecting you with family or emergency services, can be found easily.

Apps can also be removed from devices quickly and efficiently by simply deleting them from the home screen. A pop-up confirmation will appear before it is deleted altogether.

Top app recommendations for seniors
Try some of these to improve your daily life, to connect with others, and to get more use from your smartphone or tablet:

Connection

Apps are now one of the best ways to stay connected with loved ones and engage with our community and the world around. Some of the most popular and easiest to use apps include:

• Facebook – a user-friendly way to engage with your friends, family and community, via your Facebook profile.
• Zoom or Skype – video meeting platforms for private online gatherings from a few people to larger groups.
• WhatsApp – a free way to make telephone and video calls (so long as you are connected to the internet via Wi-Fi) and send messages to your contacts. Many families today create WhatsApp groups so that they can engage together.

Activities

• Words with Friends – a multiplayer word game where users can choose to play solo, with friends or as part of a global community to challenge vocabulary skills in a fun way.
• Lumosity – games and activities designed by neuroscientists to improve cognition and brain health.
• Duolingo – a fun and engaging way to learn a new language.
• Navigation and transport
• Google maps – for directions if driving, public transport or walking. The app also allows you to save your car park when out, then retrieve the information when returning to the car to avoid the frustration of trying to remember.
• Car services – global organisations like Uber and Didi are run purely through apps, or local networks like taxis, and private car services can be booked and tracked through apps. Download company names if looking for a local option.
• Local public transport – most public transport organisations have apps that include information on times, routes, any disruptions to the lines.

Hobbies

• PictureThis – plant identifier for garden enthusiasts keen to grow their knowledge.
• Shazam – when you hear a song being played and need to know the name, this app will listen then give you the name and artist.
• Spotify – a music streaming app with a free version including some advertisements, or a paid subscription to remove these ads.
• Audible – subscription service of audiobooks with a vast collection of national and international titles.
• ABC radio – just one of many radio apps available. As a local app it offers links to stations all around Australia and an extensive backlist of programs with interviews, stories and music.
• Old Time Radio 24 – a step back in time through a huge library of old-time music.

Health

• Medisafe pill reminder – never forget to take medications again.
• HotDoc – book and manage appointments with doctors and registered health care providers in Australia.
• Calm – simple to use meditation app that can be tailored towards improving sleep, reducing anxiety or improving focus.
• Magnifying Glass + Flash Light – simple, easy way to turn your iPhone into a magnifying glass with light for easier reading.
• RunKeeper – tracks walks and other physical activity, monitoring results and helping with motivation.
• Daily planning and security
• Any.do: To-do list and calendar – combines a to-do list with calendar, planner and reminders.
• mSecure – secure and safe way to store passwords and private information kept on devices.

There’s an app for almost anything! Ask your Pearl home carer to assist is you are looking for something specific or having trouble downloading something that will support and improve your daily life.

For further advice and tips on staying safe online, visit the Australian Government’s Be Connected portal.

Find your nearest Pearl Home Care outlet here.