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Senior Times - March 2026 Page 5of the icebox turned refrigerator, washing machine, dryer, microwave, garage door opener, or T.V. remotes. When was the first time you used a telephone that was wireless? Can you imagine your life without them now, or even their newer advances since? I have grown accustomed to talking to Siri when I need help, directions, or assistance with text messages. Gosh, I can even do puzzles, read or listen to books, play cards, or find new favorite recipes on my smart phone and iPad now. Your technology can be just the connection to the world that you need. Not just family and friends but also your connection to medical care from consultations to far more informative tests. You can access your medical records, county records, and even your ancestry can be at your fingertips. Nearly 70% of adults 50+ have one or more chronic conditions but only 13% are using technology to manage their conditions. Implementing health-related technology can be a lifeline for you.However, it%u2019s important to note that adults born before 1946 like to communicate with the written word or by phone. Seniors in the Boomer years, on the other hand, are more familiar with computers and are more apt to communicate this way than those who are older. Truly, socialization is important no matter the age category you fall in.It%u2019s time to admit that many aging adults are still at a disadvantage because they don%u2019t have the best tools to be able to communicate effectively online. Whether you%u2019re the one that is getting frustrated because your computer doesn%u2019t behave the way you want it to, or you get frustrated because your adult parent has a hard time communicating with you electronically, there are solutions. Here are some things to consider: %u2022 Buy a computer that is current and is going to work for your needs. Your son or daughter%u2019s old computer is not going to cut it. If they don%u2019t want it any longer then why would you? %u2022 Buy a phone that has keys large enough to use.%u2022 If you%u2019re going to be texting buy a phone with a full keyboard rather than having to use the same key for several letters. %u2022 Be sure you have an internet connection that is fast enough. Wait times are frustrating.%u2022 Use a laptop or keyboard with keys that are large enough to use or that don%u2019t require pounding to push a key down. %u2022 If you need an additional device to help you communicate by voice then get one, especially if hearing is a concern or your fingers don%u2019t work as well anymore.%u2022 Sometimes it is easier to get acquainted with the equipment by doing something fun. That might be games, possibly starting a journal, setting up photo albums, etc. Or find topics that are of interest to you and go learn about them.%u2022 Take a computer class and learn the language or ask a grand child. It will be both fun and help you to feel more comfortable at your computer. %u2022 Ask adult children or other trusted source to help set up email, online banking or bill paying, website favorites, and communication platforms to stay connected.%u2022 A fun way to learn and engage is to use GetSetUp at getsetup.io/partner/michigan.Always remember that even though the convenience of email, social networking sites, and webcam connections can help take the edge off loneliness they are not the same as actual contact. These technologies can be a lifeline for those with health problems or when you are communicating with loved ones out of state but they do not actually compare with having your grand child sitting in your lap. The advantage, however, is building continuity in relationships. It allows for daily interaction that even cards and letters cannot afford. So get connected.If you get the right tools to be successful then you are more likely to enjoy it, want to go back to it, and will probably start to learn new things on your own as well; there%u2019s a world of information to be found. If you need assistance with getting online sign up for a class at your area senior center, library, or LifeLong Learning. Or invite a grand child over for food and a bit of fun learning together. The greatest challenge%u2026 don%u2019t let that power source run out. Be sure to have your charging cords within easy grasp. Stay charged and stay connected%u2026 and stay connected in and out of the home. Publisher%u2019s note: Be sure to use caution when posting information to social networking sites. And while you%u2019re online connecting or learning be sure to visit Senior Times at www.scenepub.com/seniortimes. From there you can jump right to our Facebook page. I%u2019d love to hear from you.%u2022 We%u2019re not-for-profit. We focus on people not profits.%u2022 We%u2019re one of the few financial institutions in the country that share our profits by paying our members an annual Cashback Rebate.%u2022 We%u2019re 100% local and committed to the betterment of our communities.%u2022 We%u2019ve been serving the residents of Southwest Michigan since 1951!Join OMNI Community Credit Union today!Federally insured by NCUAWITH THEGUYS!BANKGOOD LIVE, WORK, PLAY LOCALLY?(866)OMNI-WOWwww.omnicommunitycu.orgFederally insured by NCUA Equal HousingOpportunityFamily Owned & OperatedThe Villa at Winston Court is a place seniors can receive the care and support needed to live fulfilling lives in a home-like environment.208 Winston Court Marshall MI 49068269-248-6226www.thevillaalc.com%u2022 Medication Management%u2022 24/7 Pharmacy Services%u2022 Personalized Care Plans%u2022 ADL & IADL Support%u2022 Meals Services%u2022 Housekeeping & Laundry Services%u2022 Daily Activities & Entertainment%u2022 All Inclusive Pricing