Useful Apps:  Older Adult Perspectives

Led by Ronda Sciolto, a member of the Steering Committee of the Providence Circle, the June meeting focused on technology, particularly on apps (or applications) that are particularly useful. Ronda worked in technology for many years and is the founder of “Help Me, Ronda,” a business that has the goal of helping non-digital natives thrive in a digital world by reducing barriers to using the tools of technology and making it simple.

The group discusses Explorer Joe’s topic: seeking useful apps for older adults.

Explorer Lynn describes her initial introduction to Siri as a most helpful navigation aid while driving.

Explorer Barbara tells the group about a service that allows people without a smartphone to use a cell phone or a wire line to call to summon a ride from Uber or Lyft.

These explorers brainstorm about things they wish their smartphone could do for them in the future.

This group talks about how to decide that it is time to stop driving. Who should decide? And would an "App for that" be useful?

The Longevity Exporers are asked their opinions on the Pokemon Go craze that is now so popular.

Explorer Arthur describes his family's recent experience with an online map service when on a trip to Disney World.

Sequoias San Francisco Explorer AnnieScott leads off the discussion by saying that she would like to use Skype, but feels hesitation about the aesthetic aspects of a picture that may be unflattering.

Explorer Steve reports that he uses FaceTime to visit with his sister, who then uses it to show him something that has broken so he can explain to her how to fix it.

Sequoias Explorers discuss and then participate in an exploration of video calling via Skype, the video call App.