October 2026
Technology can do more than keep us connected with family and friends. The right tools can make everyday tasks easier, support independence and help older adults feel more confident at home. At PACE Southeast Michigan, we believe the right support can help older adults maintain their independence and continue living life their way. You don’t have to be a technology expert to get started!
Here are a few simple technology tips worth trying.
Make your smartphone easier to use
Today’s devices are extremely simple to set up. However, if you need help getting started, invite a neighbor, friend, or family member to help you. Small buttons and crowded screens can be difficult to navigate. Fortunately, many phones offer features like Apple’s Assistive Access or Samsung’s Easy Mode which can make screen items larger and easier to see.
Try this: Explore your phone’s accessibility settings or ask a loved one to help adjust your display.
Turn your phone into a magnifying glass
Having trouble reading small print on a menu, medicine label or instruction sheet? Your smartphone may have a built-in Magnifier feature that uses the camera to enlarge text and objects.
Try this: Search your phone for “Magnifier” or “Magnification.”
Let your voice do the work
Voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant can help you call loved ones, send messages, set reminders and check the weather without typing.
Try this: Ask your phone to call a family member or remind you about an upcoming appointment.
Set helpful reminders
Your phone’s calendar or reminders app can help you keep track of appointments, daily tasks and your medication schedules. Notifications can make it easier to stay organized throughout the day.
Try this: Start by setting a reminder for your next doctor’s appointment.
Stay connected through video calls
Apps like FaceTime and Google Meet make it easier to see and talk with loved ones, even when they live far away. Video calls can help you share everyday moments and stay connected.
Try this: Ask a loved one to help you set up a video call and save your favorite contacts.
Make your home more comfortable and safe
Simple devices can make a difference at home. Motion-sensor lights can illuminate hallways when movement is detected, while smart speakers can provide weather updates, set timers and offer hands-free assistance. Smart doorbells can also let you see who’s at your door before answering.
Try this: Consider one small change that could make your home more comfortable or convenient.
Protect yourself from online scams
Be cautious of unexpected messages asking for money, passwords or verification codes. Scammers may pretend to be a bank, government agency or family member.
Try this: Pause before responding to urgent or suspicious messages. Contact the person or organization directly using a number you already trust, and never share passwords or verification codes with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Technology can help you stay independent
You don’t have to learn everything at once. Start with one feature, practice at your own pace and ask for help when you need it.
At PACE Southeast Michigan, we understand that maintaining independence means having the right support. The staff at our centers provide coordinated healthcare and supportive services for eligible older adults. Our goal is to help participants continue living in their homes and communities.
Want to learn more? Explore PACE Southeast Michigan’s services to discover how our team can help you continue living life your way.