At some point, we’ve all forgotten our wallet and only realised once we got to the checkout or struggled to book a doctor’s appointment after ending up 10th in the queue. Who wouldn’t choose to skip the hassle if they could?
The speed at which the world has gone digital can be intimidating, but it’s also brought a lot of brilliant conveniences to our lives, and learning how to make the most of them will only help you enjoy retirement living your way. Becoming tech-savvy lets you choose how and when you bring the online world into your life, using the digital services that truly benefit you.
Worried about whether going digital is safe?
You’re not alone. One of the biggest concerns people have about going digital, especially for financial and healthcare services, is data protection, online safety and scam awareness. The concern is understandable, but using official apps from verified providers makes it much safer than you might think and, in some cases, even more secure.
Find out more about the essential digital skills that could make retirement living more convenient for you.
Essential digital skills for seniors
Manage your finances more simply, with:
Online banking apps
With the growth of online banking, you’ve probably noticed that high street branches where you could cash a cheque aren’t as common. While you might still find the odd one, popping in on your way home from the shops is becoming less of an option.
The change can feel unsettling, but embracing digital banking gives you quick, easy access to your finances. You can move money between accounts, pay for things online, and transfer money when you need to, without a middleman.
Each bank has its own app available through your device’s app store. Download it to your device and follow the setup instructions. If you need a helping hand, Age UK offers beginner and intermediate guides to using apps.
Your digital wallet
While it’s always useful to have your cards to hand, it’s easy to misplace them and having an alternative option removes the worry. According to the Payments Market Report, around 43% of adults still don’t use their smartphone’s digital wallet, but it’s a handy tool. An e-wallet lets you store your payment details securely on your device and make electronic payments.
It’s secure, simple to use and easy for you to monitor, often requiring a fingerprint, password or facial recognition to authorise transactions. You can also link it to your banking app and set up spending alerts, so you always have oversight of how it’s used.
Access healthcare conveniently, with:
Online doctor’s appointment booking
If you’re registered with a UK GP, you can skip the morning call queue by booking appointments through the NHS App. Age UK offers a helpful guide for setting up the NHS app on your device.
First, create an account via the website and verify your identity with a photo ID. Once registered with your local practice, you can book, cancel or rearrange appointments, order repeat prescriptions and receive reminders. It’s free to use and well worth downloading to your device.
Digital services to monitor your health
As we get older, staying in tune with our bodies helps us notice when something might need checking. Whether you use a wearable device, like an Apple Watch, Fitbit or Oura Ring, or track activity through your phone, monitoring your step count, heart rate and sleep can help you stay consistent and spot changes. These tools don’t replace seeing a doctor, but they can help you make more informed decisions about your health.
Travel flexibly via public transport, with:
Train service planning apps
If you travel by train, several apps make it easier to plan and book journeys. You can buy tickets in advance, apply discounts and travel passes, and get live updates on delays or cancellations. The Trainline and TransPennine Express are two popular options in the UK. With Trainline, you can also store your Over 60s rail card, so everything is ready to show when you travel. Just download the app and follow the setup steps.
Bus route planning apps
Bus apps vary by location, but the First Bus app offers a comprehensive service in many areas. You can search your destination, view available routes and check walking times to nearby stops. While many buses nowuse tap-on, tap-off payments with a debit card, you can also buy tickets in advance through the app and scan them when you board.
Enjoy entertainment more easily, with:
Film streaming subscriptions
TV subscription services let you watch shows and films online, often without adverts, depending on your plan. Many also allow downloads, so you can watch without a Wi-Fi connection, for example, while travelling on a plane or the bus. Popular services in the UK include Netflix, NOW TV and Prime Video. On Netflix, you can create multiple profiles (especially handy if you love a romance and your partner prefers a nature documentary) and get personalised recommendations for what to watch next
Music streaming subscriptions
Streaming music can be one of the most liberating ways to listen. You can make playlists of all your favourite songs, like a digital mix tape, share your favourite music with loved ones and discover new artists you might not have heard before, based on what you already enjoy. There are millions of songs, albums and musicians to explore, but if you want to stick to the classics you love, that’s fine too!
Spotify is one of the most popular services, available on both Apple and Android devices, with free and paid options. The free version includes adverts and requires an internet connection, while Spotify Premium removes ads and allows offline listening.
Listening to audiobooks
While paid services like Audible are available, many local libraries offer free access to digital audiobooks with a membership. Check whether the audiobook service is available at your local library through the government’s library services page. If it is, you’ll need to register with the library and download its audiobook borrowing app. Common library apps include BorrowBox, RBdigital and OverDrive.
Access free digital competency support
Age UK offers several digital instruction guides, free to access through its website. These guides cover helpful content like using apps, navigating the NHS website, using digital tools for entertainment and hobbies and more.
FAQs about getting tech savvy in retirement
Do I need a smartphone to use apps?
No, you don’t always need a smartphone to use apps, but it’s a very convenient device to have. The main devices people use to store apps are:
- Smartphones
Best for staying connected on the go, taking photos, listening to music, video calling loved ones, and using apps like banking or travel.
- Laptops or tablets
Better if you prefer to work on a larger screen to do things like write emails and watch videos. These devices usually require Wi-Fi for an internet connection.
- E-readers (like a Kindle)
A transportable library, ideal for book lovers, with adjustable text size and brightness.
What is the best smartphone for someone in retirement?
With so many out there, the best one for you is one that’s simple to use and suits your needs. Look for:
- A clear, bright screen with adjustable text size
- Good battery life
- Straightforward navigation
- Accessibility features like voice control, screen magnification and hearing support
How do I avoid scams online?
When it comes to online safety, many of the same principles of avoiding telephone scams apply. It’s important that you:
- Don’t share personal or financial information with unexpected callers or messages
- Be cautious of urgent requests or pressure to act quickly
- Only download apps from official app stores
- Check website addresses carefully before entering details
- Use strong, unique passwords
Is using an e-wallet dangerous?
No, using an e-wallet is generally safe, as long as you use trusted apps and follow basic security steps.
Churchill Retirement Living: Your lifestyle. Your choice.
Whether you want to make the digital world a seamless part of your everyday, or keep it something you occasionally dabble in, we’re here to help you live the lifestyle you love. Find out more about retirement living in our Churchill communities, or explore more of the topics that interest you through the Churchill news page.