Empowering Aging Parents: A Guide to Navigating Technology and Avoiding Scams

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Supporting aging parents with technology is essential as it helps them stay connected, access resources, and remain safe online. 

Teaching them how to use devices effectively and recognise scams is a practical way to foster independence and security.

 

Top 10 tips to empowering ageing parents:

1. Simplify the Setup: Arrange a clear, easy-to-navigate home screen with large icons for essential apps.

  1. Use Accessibility Features: Enable features like larger fonts, screen readers, or voice commands to make devices more user-friendly.
  2. Practice Together: Go over basic tasks repeatedly and write simple instructions for reference.
  3. Spotting Phishing Scams: Teach them to look for red flags in emails and messages, such as poor grammar or unusual requests for personal information.
  4. Warn Against “Too Good to Be True” Offers: Explain that legitimate prizes or money don’t come unsolicited. Encourage skepticism.
  5. Social Media Safety: Help them adjust privacy settings and avoid friend requests or messages from strangers.
  6. Never Share Sensitive Info: Reinforce that reputable companies won’t ask for passwords or bank details via email or phone.
  7. Report Suspicious Activity: Encourage them to report any suspicious emails or calls and ask for help if they’re unsure.
  8. Block Unwanted Calls and Messages: Show them how to block numbers and delete suspicious emails to reduce contact with scammers.
  9. Stay in Touch for Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins help reinforce tech skills and online safety, keeping them confident and secure.

 

First, simplify the setup of devices and applications to make everyday tech use easier. Set up smartphones, tablets, or computers with a clean home screen, keeping only essential apps visible. Provide large, easy-to-read fonts and use shortcuts for apps they’ll frequently use, like phone calls, messaging, email, and video calling. 

Many devices also have accessibility features like screen readers or voice commands; these can be particularly helpful if parents have vision or mobility challenges.

When introducing new apps or devices, explain their functions patiently and, if possible, practice using them together. Repetition helps build comfort. Write down simple, clear instructions they can refer to later if they forget a step.

A crucial aspect of digital support is teaching parents how to recognise scams, as seniors are often targeted by scammers. Start by explaining common scam tactics, such as phishing emails, fake pop-ups, or fraudulent calls. Show them examples and help them spot red flags, such as poor grammar, unfamiliar senders, or urgent requests for personal information. Emphasise that legitimate companies rarely request sensitive details like bank account numbers or passwords over the phone or by email.

One practical technique is ensuring they know the “too good to be true” principle. Scammers often use tempting offers or prizes to lure people into providing information or payments. 

Remind your parents that unsolicited offers should be approached with scepticism, especially for large sums of money or services.

If your parents use social media, guide them on privacy settings and the importance of sharing limited personal information. Show them how to recognise fake profiles, often marked by minimal content, vague information, or unusually attractive profile photos. Encourage them not to accept friend requests from strangers and to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links.

Finally, discuss what to do if they suspect a scam. Suggest they double-check with you or another trusted person before providing any personal information or making payments. Teach them how to block phone numbers, delete suspicious emails, and report fraudulent messages.

Ongoing support is key. 

Check-in regularly to ensure they feel comfortable and to reinforce their knowledge of online safety. With patience and consistent guidance, aging parents can feel empowered to navigate technology and identify scams confidently.

 

If this article has inspired you to think about your unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please get in touch with your advice professional.

This information does not consider any person’s objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation, or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)

 

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