10 Simple Tech Tips Every Senior Should Know (Explained Without the Jargon)

Introduction

Technology should make life easier, not harder. But we understand that sometimes it feels like you need a translator just to understand basic tech advice. At Black and White IT Services, we believe in explaining technology in plain English. Here are 10 straightforward tips that can make your digital life simpler and more enjoyable, without any confusing technical terms.

1. Write Down Your Passwords (But Keep Them Safe)

Despite what many people say, it’s perfectly okay to write down your passwords—just be smart about where you keep them. Use a dedicated notebook that you store in a secure place in your home. Don’t label it “Passwords” on the cover, and consider using a simple code that only makes sense to you, like adding or removing a certain character from each password.

Simple solution: Get a small notebook dedicated just for passwords. Keep it in a drawer or cabinet—not next to your computer. Even better, consider using a password management tool like LastPass, Keeper or Apple Passwords, which can store all your passwords securely behind one master password. We’re happy to help set this up for you.

2. Set Up Automatic Updates

Your computer, tablet, and phone will work better and be safer if you let them update automatically. Updates fix problems and protect against new security threats.

Simple solution: On your device, go to Settings, look for “Updates” or “Software Update,” and turn on automatic updates. Then you’ll never have to worry about it again.

3. Create Larger Text and Consider a Larger Monitor

There’s no need to strain your eyes when reading on your devices. All modern computers, tablets, and smartphones allow you to increase text size. For computer users, one of the best investments for eye comfort is a larger monitor, such as a 32-inch screen, which can make everything more visible without constantly zooming in.

Simple solution:

• On Windows computers: Press the Ctrl key and the plus (+) key together to make text bigger
• On Apple computers: Press the Command key and the plus (+) key
• On smartphones and tablets: Look in Settings for “Display” or “Accessibility” and then “Text Size”
• Consider upgrading to a larger monitor (around 32 inches) which can dramatically improve your computing experience if you have vision challenges

4. Use Voice Commands Instead of Typing

Most modern devices can listen to your voice commands, which is often easier than typing, especially on small screens.

Simple solution:

• On iPhones or iPads, press and hold the home button (or side button on newer models) and say “Hey Siri” followed by your question
• On Android devices, say “Hey Google” or “OK Google”
• On Windows, click the microphone icon near the search bar or say “Hey Cortana”

5. Take a Picture of Error Messages

When something goes wrong with your computer or device and you see an error message, take a photo of it with your phone before you click anything. This makes it much easier for support people to help you later.

Simple solution: Keep your phone handy and snap a quick picture whenever you see an error message. This will help us solve your problem much faster when you call.

6. Create One Folder for All Downloads

It’s easy to lose track of things you download from the internet. Create one folder called “My Downloads” on your desktop, and save everything there first.

Simple solution: Right-click on your desktop, select “New” and then “Folder.” Name it “My Downloads” and use this folder whenever you save something from the internet.

7. Learn to Zoom In and Out on Any Device

Being able to make things bigger on your screen is incredibly useful, whether you’re reading small text or looking at photos.

Simple solution:

• On most devices, place two fingers together on the screen and spread them apart to zoom in
• Or hold down the Ctrl key (Command key on Macs) and press the + key to zoom in, or the – key to zoom out
• To quickly return to normal size: Ctrl+0 (or Command+0 on Macs)

8. Back Up Your Photos Regularly

Don’t risk losing precious family photos and memories. Setting up automatic backups is easier than you might think.

Simple solution: For the simplest approach, plug in an external hard drive to your computer (we can help you choose one), and use your computer’s built-in backup tool to automatically copy your photos. Or use a service like Google Photos or iCloud, which can automatically save copies of all your photos online.

9. Restart Before Calling for Help

It sounds too simple to be true, but turning your device completely off and then back on again solves a surprising number of problems. This gives your device a fresh start and clears out temporary issues.

Simple solution: Before calling for technical help, try turning your device off completely, waiting 30 seconds, and turning it back on. You’ll be amazed how often this fixes things.

10. Know How to End Frozen Programs

Sometimes programs stop working or “freeze.” Instead of turning off your entire computer, you can just close the problematic program.

Simple solution:

• On Windows: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete together, then select “Task Manager.” Select the frozen program and click “End Task”
• On Mac: Press Command+Option+Escape, select the frozen program, and click “Force Quit”

Need More Help?

Technology should work for you, not against you. If you need patient, clear assistance with any technology issues, Black and White IT Services is here to help. We explain everything in plain English and never make you feel uncomfortable for asking questions.

Call us at 1300 859 193 or visit https://blackandwhite.support to book an appointment. We offer in-home service and can help with everything from computer problems to internet setup, smart TVs, and much more.