iPad Training: Is there any free help online for a senior with an iPad?
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Is there any free help online for a senior with an iPad?
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Products mentioned in our answer below are provided to inform you about the types of technologies available and have not been evaluated by CanAssist. They may or may not be appropriate for your particular situation. Some technologies and devices may require an in-person assessment. Speak with your health care provider for additional information and support.
Technologies like tablets and iPads have potential to benefit a senior’s wellbeing through applications for entertainment, self management, and social connection. Learning how to use an iPad can be both challenging and rewarding. That’s why many beginners choose to access courses to learn more about their devices. Below we have listed a few different formats for training including: online courses, apps, documents, videos and in-person training.
Apple Stores offers free introductory courses for their devices and right now those courses are available online. Select any store in British Columbia to view and register for classes. PC Magazine has posted an article online to help get signed up for one of these courses.
There are a few apps that are designed to introduce seniors to the functionality of their iPads in a very friendly set-by-step format beginning with using a touch screen. Easy Tablet Help for Seniors by Generations on Line is a free app that provides iPad training using simple language and large text.
AgeAction has put together a simple comprehensive guide to getting started with an iPad. This free document is both printer-friendly and it can be viewed online.
Video can be another great format for seniors to learn about devices. There are a few YouTube channels that present information about technology, including iPads, to seniors in a clear and simple way:
- Rich Bowlin has posted several videos on his channel that cover iPad tips for seniors.
- Thomas Jedallah recently published a 70-Minute Course for Beginners and Seniors on How to Use an iPad.
There may also be programs available in your community. Recently the United Way Healthy Aging has launched a Digital Learning Pilot Project to invest into community programming that "aims to increase digital literacy among seniors." You can find a senior's centre near you by searching on BC211. For more information about in-person classes or training for other devices see our technology training article.
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