Technology for Older People: Staying Connected Safely
Updated: Oct 3
Free information from OlderPeople.co.uk
This guide provides general information and practical suggestions for older adults coping with bereavement and emotional wellbeing. It is not a substitute for individual medical advice or emergency support.
Technology has become part of everyday life.
Whether it's speaking to family on a video call, ordering prescriptions, booking NHS appointments or reading the news, being able to use a smartphone, tablet or computer can make life much easier.
For many older people, however, technology can also feel confusing or intimidating.
This is especially true if a husband, wife or partner previously dealt with everything online.
The good news is that you don't need to become an expert.
Learning one useful skill at a time is often all that's needed to feel more confident and independent.
Start with one practical task
It's easy to become overwhelmed by everything technology can do.
Instead of trying to learn everything at once, choose one task that would genuinely make your life easier. For example:
making a video call to family;
sending photographs;
booking an NHS appointment;
ordering a repeat prescription;
using online banking safely.
Once that task feels comfortable, you can gradually learn another. Small successes build confidence.
Write simple instructions
It's perfectly normal to forget the steps for something you don't use every day.
Many people find it helpful to keep written instructions nearby. Use plain language. Write down:
which button to press;
what should appear on the screen;
what to do next.
You don't have to rely on memory alone. One simple page of notes can remove a great deal of frustration.
For security, never write passwords where other people can easily find them.
Make your device easier to use
Modern devices include many accessibility features that can make them much more comfortable to use. You could try:
increasing the text size;
making icons larger;
using voice commands;
adjusting screen brightness;
simplifying the home screen.
These small changes often make technology feel much less intimidating.
Stay connected with other people
Technology isn't only about practical tasks. It can also help reduce loneliness.
Video calls allow you to see family who live far away.
Messaging lets you keep in touch with friends.
Online community groups can help you find people who share your interests.
Technology works best when it supports real relationships rather than replacing them.
Be alert to scams
Unfortunately, older people are sometimes targeted by online fraud. Be cautious if someone:
asks for passwords;
requests one-time security codes;
asks you to move money to a "safe account";
offers unexpected technical support;
pressures you to act immediately.
Banks, government departments and genuine organisations will never ask you to reveal security information in this way.
If you're unsure, stop the conversation and contact the organisation directly using a trusted telephone number.
Ask for help safely
There's nothing wrong with asking someone you trust to help you learn new technology. In fact, many people learn much faster when someone demonstrates the steps.
If someone is helping you:
avoid sharing passwords where possible;
change passwords if you think they've become known to others;
understand what someone can see if they're accessing your device remotely;
end any remote access session once the problem has been solved.
Learning safely is just as important as learning confidently.
Technology after bereavement
Many people discover after the death of a partner that they now need to manage devices, online accounts or household services they never dealt with before.
Take your time. Deal with one account at a time.
Whenever possible, contact organisations directly through their official websites or telephone numbers.
Be particularly cautious if someone contacts you unexpectedly claiming they can help. Scammers sometimes target people who have recently been bereaved.
Online friendships and relationships
The internet has helped many older people build genuine friendships and relationships. However, remember that not everyone online is who they claim to be.
Never send money, banking details or personal documents to someone you've only met online.
If you're unsure about a situation, talk it through with someone you trust before making any commitments.
Taking your time is always better than acting under pressure.
Keep learning
Technology changes all the time. Nobody knows everything.
The important thing isn't keeping up with every new device or app. It's learning the things that genuinely improve your everyday life.
Every new skill makes the next one a little easier.
When should you ask for more help?
If technology is becoming a barrier to managing your health, finances or staying in touch with other people, ask a trusted friend, family member or local community organisation whether they can help you learn.
Many libraries, community centres and charities offer friendly support for older adults who want to improve their digital confidence.
You don't have to struggle alone.
Sources and further information
This guide provides general information and emotional support. It is not a substitute for medical, mental-health, legal or financial advice. The organisations listed have not reviewed or endorsed this guide.
Free Bereavement Guide
When Grief Feels Overwhelming: 10 Gentle First Steps for Later Life Bereavement
Free Download from www.olderpeople.co.uk/free-guide
Living With Loss: A Practical Guide to Bereavement in Later Life
Written by Jerry Livings
About OlderPeople.co.uk
OlderPeople.co.uk provides free, practical emotional wellbeing guidance for older people, families, friends and carers.
The information is written by Jerry Livings, a qualified UK counsellor and bereavement author.
Need urgent help?
This website and guide do not provide emergency or crisis support. If you or anyone else is at risk of serious harm:
Call Emergency Services immediately on 999 in the UK
Go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department.
Call Samaritans free on 116 123
Contact your GP
Document: Technology for Older People: Staying Connected Safely
Version 1.0 | July 2026 | OlderPeople.co.uk