Top Smartphone Apps for Senior Citizens
June 11, 2018
by Charles “Ebbie” Alfree III, Director of Advancement
Last year I wrote an article titled, Apps, Making Life Easier for Seniors, for the Daily Local News. With advances in technology occurring on a daily basis…and since we are in the summer movie season when many sequels are released. I thought this would be a good time to revisit this topic and write a sequel to my article!
I was unable to include all appropriate apps in my previous piece, and since writing it more apps have been developed. I will never be able to include all the apps in one article, so I have picked 7 additional ones that could be of assistance to seniors:
Lose It!
For those looking to still lose a few pounds before stepping onto the beach this summer, this weight loss app may help you! Through the app’s registration process, you provide your personal information and goal weight. It will then take your information and calculate your best daily calorie intake to lose those extra pounds. You will track your daily food, weight, and activity through the app to help you reach your goal! You may want to consult your doctor before using this or any other weight management app.
NPR One
Now you can listen to your favorite NPR shows without having a radio! NPR One keeps you connected to NPR news, stories, and podcasts curated just for you through an app on your smartphone or tablet!
Pillboxie
Easily keep track of your pills with this app! Pillboxie allows you to visually manage your medicine on your smartphone or tablet. It provides multiple combinations for you to customize your medicines by type and color, and the app reminds you to take your medicines even when your device is asleep.
TodayTix
If you are a theater lover, this app can assist you in getting last-minute tickets to multiple productions in Philadelphia, New York, Washington, D.C., and many other major US cities. Most tickets on the app are sold at a discounted price.
Sleep Cycle
Get your best sleep with Sleep Cycle! This app analyzes your sleep and wakes you up in the lightest sleep phase. Waking up during this natural sleeping point will help you feel more rested!
Spotify
This app is for music fans! Spotify offers millions of songs and podcasts everyday for free! For $9.99 a month you can upgrade to Spotify Premium, which provides additional features, including ad-free music.
Waze
Now you don’t have to sit in traffic anymore! Waze is a traffic and navigation app that provides the fattest routes to your destinations. It provides information about road construction, hazards, and other issues that can impact your trip.
Most of these apps are free and can be used on iPhones, Androids, iPads, and tablets. Search for these and other apps through your App Store or Google Play on your devices to find the ones that will best assist you.
Printed in the Daily Local News on Monday, June 11, 2018.