What’s your question about tech?

Our answer

Dear Eleanor, staying in your own home is a goal we hear often, and technology can quietly support it. There are now lighting systems that detect movement, light a safe path at night, and can even sense a fall and send for help. A voice assistant can call a loved one hands-free, remind you about medications, and answer questions out loud.

Smart thermostats, doorbells, and medical alert devices add another layer of security. The key is to choose only the tools that solve a real worry for you, set them up with a family member or a trusted helper, and review what each device shares so you stay in control of your privacy.

Our answer

Dear Joan, I am sorry for your loss, and I am glad you asked. Technology cannot replace a hug, but it can shorten the distance to the people and activities you love. Video calls let you see your friends’ faces and join family gatherings from your living room. Many older adults take remote exercise classes, join online book clubs, or attend virtual social meet-ups on subjects they enjoy.

Newer AI-powered assistants and chatbots can also hold a friendly conversation, help you plan a trip, or play games that keep the mind sharp during a quiet afternoon. Start with one thing, perhaps a weekly video call, and add more as it feels comfortable.

Our answer

Dear Frank, wanting the benefits without the worry is exactly the right approach. A few habits go a long way. Use a strong, unique password for important accounts, and turn on the extra login step (often called two-factor authentication) where it is offered. Review the privacy settings on your phone and voice assistant, and turn off any data sharing you do not need.

Be selective about what you share; a store does not need your birthday to sell you a sweater. And keep your devices updated, since those updates often fix security gaps. Enjoying technology and protecting your privacy are not opposites, they simply take a little attention.

Our answer

Dear Marlene, reliable internet in rural areas is one of the most important issues for older adults today, and there is real momentum behind it. Government programs and providers are working to expand high-speed broadband into communities like yours, because a good connection opens the door to telehealth visits, online shopping and delivery, and easy video calls with family.

In the meantime, ask local providers about newer options in your area, including satellite and wireless internet that can reach places the old lines never did. Your public library is often a helpful resource for getting online and learning what is available nearby.

Our answer

Dear Harold, a video visit, often called telehealth, is simply an appointment with your own provider over a phone, tablet, or computer instead of in the waiting room. It is a wonderful option for follow-ups, medication questions, and minor concerns, and it saves you the trip.

Before the visit, the office will send a link to click at your appointment time. Find a quiet, well-lit spot, have your medication list nearby, and do a practice run beforehand if you can. If a hands-on exam is truly needed, your provider will simply ask you to come in. Many older adults find telehealth so convenient that it quickly becomes a comfortable part of their care.

Our answer

Dear Lin S. Here’s the bottom line: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been around for a good deal longer than most realize as the backbone behind our advanced tech devices. It’s the intelligent power that enables the devices that you’re using, such as your smart phone, your tablet and even your own personal computer. If you have a voice assistant (as many older adults have in their homes), AI helps these devices continuously learn about your personal preferences. It can then provide you with vital information, such as local weather updates and alerts, reminders to reorder important medications and supplies, and enhance your entertainment by playing the music you most want to hear.

AI works to provide data for precise directions when we’re driving or walking. It’s also the intelligence behind linking our medical data information for our health providers, to offer a better system of health care.

With AI, our tech devices also offer a way to reduce social isolation and loneliness and help connect us to our family, friends, and community. We can engage with others via video chats, by taking remote learning and exercise classes, as well as bridge geographical distances by attending classes and meet-up social clubs located in other areas.