If you’ve ever looked at a new piece of technology and thought, “I don’t need that,” you’re not alone.
For years, new technology seemed to be designed for younger people. Every new phone came with more buttons, more apps and more features to learn. Many older adults decided it just wasn’t worth the hassle.
But something has changed.
Today’s most useful technology isn’t about keeping up with trends. It’s about making everyday life easier. Whether it’s staying in touch with family, avoiding scams, finding your way around town or getting quick answers to questions, many of today’s digital tools are designed to simplify life—not complicate it.
You don’t have to become a technology expert. In fact, you probably already own the most important device you’ll need: your smartphone.
Here are five technologies that are worth getting to know.
Artificial Intelligence: Your New Personal Assistant
Artificial intelligence, or AI, may be the biggest technology breakthrough in decades, but don’t let the name intimidate you.
Think of AI as a personal assistant that’s available 24 hours a day. You can ask it to explain confusing medical terms, help write a letter, suggest recipes using ingredients you already have or even plan a vacation. It doesn’t replace doctors, lawyers or financial advisors, but it can save time and make everyday tasks easier.
Voice Assistants: Let Your Phone Do the Work
Did you know you don’t have to type everything?
Most smartphones let you simply speak your request. You can ask your phone to set a reminder, call a family member, send a text, play your favorite music or tell you tomorrow’s weather.
If arthritis or vision problems make typing difficult, voice commands can be a game changer.
Video Calls: Bringing Family Closer
Whether your grandchildren live across town or across the country, video calling lets you see their faces instead of just hearing their voices.
Programs like FaceTime, Zoom and Google Meet have made it easier than ever to celebrate birthdays, attend family gatherings or simply check in with loved ones without leaving home.
Your Phone Can Help Protect You
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but smartphones are getting smarter, too.
Many phones can identify suspected spam calls, filter suspicious text messages and alert you when a website may not be safe. Learning to use these features can add another layer of protection against fraud.
Health Tools in Your Pocket
Your smartphone can also help you stay healthy.
Many people use it to keep track of medications, remind them about doctor’s appointments, monitor their daily steps or even detect a fall and automatically contact emergency services.
You don’t have to use every feature. Even one or two can make life a little easier.
You Don’t Have to Learn It All at Once
The biggest mistake many people make is thinking they have to master technology overnight.
You don’t.
Learning one new feature each month can make a surprising difference over the course of a year. The goal isn’t to become a technology expert. It’s to discover tools that help you spend less time struggling with devices and more time enjoying life.
Tech Tip of the Month
Stop Searching. Start Asking.
For years, most of us searched the internet by typing just a few words:
- Medicare Part D
- tomato plants
- Wichita weather
Today, you’ll usually get better results by asking a complete question—just as if you were talking to another person.
Instead of typing a few keywords, try asking:
- What’s the difference between Medicare Part A, Part B and Part D?
- Why are the leaves on my tomato plants turning yellow?
- What’s the weather forecast for Wichita this weekend, and when is the best time to mow my lawn?
- How do I make the text larger on my smartphone?
- What are three easy, healthy dinners I can make with chicken and rice?
Many search engines now use artificial intelligence to answer questions in plain language before showing links to websites where you can learn more.
The key is to be specific. The more details you include in your question, the more helpful the answer is likely to be.
Give it a try: The next time you’re looking for information online, don’t just search with a couple of words. Ask the exact question you want answered.