Welcome to post three of The Senior’s Guide to Mastering Tech Without Fear! Now that you know how to stay connected and use health tech with confidence, it’s time to explore one of the best benefits of modern technology: entertainment. Whether it’s streaming TV, reading, music, games, or virtual travel, today’s devices open up a world of fun right from the comfort of home.
Why Tech-Powered Entertainment Matters
Entertainment technology can do more than pass the time. It keeps the mind active, spirits high, and creates meaningful new ways for seniors to learn, connect, and relax. Here’s how:
Mental Fitness: Brain games and puzzles improve memory, attention, and mental flexibility.
Physical Wellbeing: Certain game systems and virtual reality experiences can even promote movement and better balance.
Lifelong Learning: Take a museum tour, learn a language, or explore a new hobby with online courses and videos.
Social Connections: Watch movies with family on different coasts, play games with friends, or join online clubs and discussion groups.
Streaming Services: TV, Movies, and More
The way we watch television has changed forever—mostly for the better! Streaming services let seniors control when and what they watch without expensive cable packages or complicated remotes.
Popular Streaming Options for Seniors:
Netflix: A treasure trove of movies and popular TV (plus features to boost dialogue volume).
Amazon Prime Video: Included with Prime membership for shopping.
Hulu: Great for staying current on shows and watching local news.
Sling TV & FuboTV: Perfect if you like channel-surfing or watching live sports.
Many streaming apps are available on smart TVs, tablets, or stand-alone streaming devices (like Roku or Fire Stick). Look for large, easy-to-read interfaces and “favorites” lists to simplify navigation.
Digital Games: More Than Just Play
You don’t have to be a lifelong gamer to enjoy the benefits of digital games.
Brain Training: Apps like Lumosity, Elevate, and CogniFit are designed to exercise short-term memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Social Play: Classic games like Scrabble or card games can be played online with friends and family anywhere in the world.
Physical and Balance Games: Consoles like Nintendo Switch offer gentle exercise and balance games - shown to improve mobility and even reduce falls.
Virtual Reality: Some centers and communities offer VR tours or therapy, letting you travel virtually, “walk” scenic trails, or participate in group classes from home.
Studies show seniors who play games—whether puzzles or digital—reduce stress, enhance memory, and even feel less lonely.
e-Books and Audiobooks
Modern tablets and dedicated e-readers bring enormous libraries and newspapers straight to your favorite chair.
Adjustable Font Sizes: No more squinting at tiny print!
Audiobooks: Listen to bestsellers read aloud—great for relaxing walks or winding down before bed.
Local Library Access: Most libraries now let you borrow digital books for free with just a card number.
Getting Started the Easy Way
Choose Your Device:
Tablets are the most versatile for entertainment; smart TVs or streaming sticks are best for those who love television. E-readers specialize in books.Start Simple:
Pick one app or service (like Netflix or an audiobook app) and try it for a week. Don’t rush to explore everything at once.Ask for Help:
Family, friends, or local libraries are happy to tutor—many offer classes just for seniors.Set Up Favorites:
Put shows, games, or books you love at your fingertips; don’t be shy about asking another person to help customize the menu.Enjoy and Share:
Make it a point to invite a friend over for a “movie night,” or challenge relatives to a virtual game.
Overcoming Obstacles
Intimidated by Menus and Choices?
Use the search function or “voice search” to find what you want instantly.Afraid of Getting Lost?
Most services let you mark favorites or continue watching/reading right where you left off.Worried About Costs?
Many libraries offer free digital content; for other services, try free trials and low-cost options (some start as low as $7/month).
The Takeaway
Entertainment is more than a pastime—it’s a gateway to joy, learning, and lasting relationships. With technology, fun and connection are just a click (or a tap) away. Start small, stay curious, and invite others along for the ride. There’s a whole world waiting—and it’s never been easier to enjoy.
Next time: We’ll take a look at Smart Home technology and how devices like smart speakers, lights, and security systems can make everyday living safer, simpler, and even more fun!
If you have favorite shows, games, or book apps, share them in the comments. Your suggestions will inspire others to try something new!
