Do you still have all your own teeth?
Have you read any good books lately?
Another Tired Kicking For The Sick And Disabled By Rishi
Home
»
Life & Style
»
Technology
Top 10 apps for over-50s
To revive an old joke about smartphones: we possess a device that is capable of accessing the entirety of information known to man...and we use it to look at pictures of cats and get into arguments with strangers. Of course, we do use it for other things as well, such as games, keeping in touch with relatives on the other side of the world, and even accessing useful information to make our lives that little bit easier. So here's Gransnet's top 10 apps for over 50s - some helpful, some inspirational, and some just good old fun. You decide.
1. Instagram
One of the most popular social media apps - over 800 million users - Instagram allows you to share pictures, videos and stories, with a choice of artistic filters to boot. In recent years, it's seen a rise in users over 50, aka the 'Silver Insta-Influencers', who enjoy using the the easy-to-navigate app for creative inspiration and networking.
2. Facebook
Since its inception in 2004, Facebook has been integrated so completely into our lives that it seems almost superfluous to even mention it in a list of useful apps. Over 1 billion of the 7 billion on the planet use it, and recently the younger generation are leaving the site, making way for a surge in over-55s, who are predicted to become Facebook's second-largest demographic by the end of 2018!
3. Medisafe
Whether it's your own med regime or a dependant's, this super smart app reminds you - via an alarm - when you or somebody else needs to take a medication. Simply input the medications you take and when, then log your entry as you go. You can sync the app with chosen people, meaning gentle prompts can be given if a dose has been missed.
4. Whatsapp
The inexpensive way to stay in contact, Whatsapp now has over 1 billion users! Just connect to Wifi and chat away for next to nothing. You can catch up with your grandchildren via video and send your friends and family your latest favourite photos. What's not to love?
5. Words With Friends
Pretty much the online Scrabble, Words with Friends is a multi-player game which involves building words in crossword puzzle-style. You can connect with friends or strangers, and your results are logged. It's free, works the brain and, we must admit, is addictively fun, so no wonder it has millions of downloads!
6. Twitter
Great for news, networking and 'tweeting' what's on your mind in just 280 characters, Twitter is an oldie but a goodie. For those who don't 'get' the platform, its power was demonstrated in sparking a number of uprisings and the overthrowing of certain dictators in the Middle East. Not just a pointless app, eh? Free app My Fitness Pal, lets you track calories and calculate weight and calories burned through exercise. It has a much-loved feature where you can scan food barcodes and produce an entry complete with nutrients. Moreover, there are forums, support and handy notifications to keep your health journey stable. With the tap of a finger, you can access one of the UK'S favourite stores on your mobile. The Marks and Spencer app allows you to do some much-needed shopping, see the latest offers and view your SPARKS loyalty scheme balance. Best part of it? You don't even need to leave the sofa! Images: Shutterstock
7. AccuWeather
Arguably one of the best weather apps out there, AccuWeather's advantages are its hyper-localised and minute-by-minute weather forecasts. It also has satellite and radar imagery, so you can see if a storm is a-brewin'. This app is ideal if you like to plan ahead to avoid getting caught in a downpour!8. My Fitness Pal
9. M&S
10. Candy Crush
The seemingly innocuous game of matching three or more sweets to earn points and progress to the next level has become phenomenally popular on a global scale, and it's also a gransnetters' favourite. 