Having the right equipment can allow you to do things that you might not otherwise be able to do. There is an array of equipment, tools and gadgets that can help keep you and those you love ageing well and connected with their communities. Learn about the benefits of assistance tools such as hearing aids, medic alert bracelets, and walkers, and find information on how to access and pay for services.
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Technology
21st Century Design – NN Group – Don Norman

Changes in How Senior Citizens Use Computers

Dad won't use computers. How can I get him online?
Not everyone wants to go online. While you may understand the numerous benefits and be capable of handling the drawbacks, it appears that your enthusiasm for the digital world fails to inspire someone close to you to make the move. There can be several reasons why people don’t want to...
Design for the Elderly

Enable New Zealand

I can’t afford the internet. Is there free access anywhere?
For many New Zealanders, there is a significant cost barrier to accessing the internet. It is estimated that approximately 130,320 homes across New Zealand don’t have an internet connection. Skinny Jump: Skinny Jump is an initiative by the Spark Foundation that provides subsidised broadband services to eligible New Zealanders who...
Observe, Test, Iterate, and Learn (Don Norman)

Reach Out - Virtual Nan – Telehealth - Health Care Home Collaborative

Results beat perfect design

SeniorNet New Zealand - Community Learning Network

Smartphone for Beginners - TechAble ( number 1 in series - US)

The Harm in Conflating Aging with Accessibility - Communications of the ACM

Virtual Health

What does the withdrawal of the copper wire network mean?
With the roll-out of the fibre network across New Zealand, the copper wire network is being phased out. This means that traditional landline and broadband internet services (namely ADSL and VDSL) will soon be unusable. As well as the withdrawal of the copper line, Spark is also phasing out the...
What is the best phone and/or computer for my relative?
Technology is great these days and many modern devices have ‘leapfrogged’ the need to know how to really ‘use’ a device and are now quite intuitive. Simple smart phones and basic tablets often are all that’s needed. Contact your local SeniorNet to see if your relative can go and try...
Useful equipment
Am I eligible for a medical alarm?
A medical alarm can provide peace of mind for older people and their families in the event of a medical emergency. These generally come as small, wearable pendants that are connected to emergency medical teams, so that assistance can be despatched right away. In New Zealand, there is a cost...
Can assistive equipment make my life easier?
Many people are not aware of the equipment and mobility solutions on the market. You may only need one or two pieces of equipment to make all the difference between managing and feeling unsafe. Find out as much as you can. Ask your friends and family, go online, get brochures...
How much do hearing aids cost?
Are hearing aids free? In New Zealand there is some Ministry of Health (MOH) funding available for hearing aids. There are two funds. Access to these funds is based on the type of hearing loss you have and your circumstances. There might be other options if you do not meet...