Technology has advanced in the 21st century. Many of today’s seniors remember what it was like before technology, whenever they had to use an actual map when traveling or take their polaroid camera to the pharmacy to develop their pictures. Many seniors might find technology bad, whereas others don’t want to live a day without it!
Technology has many pros that help make our lives a tad easier. For example, with technology, looking into Medicare costs and staying up to date with any changes in your Medicare plan is much easier. This is just one example, so keep reading to learn other ways to make good use of tech in retirement.
1. Stay connected
In the 21st century, it’s hard to use the excuse of being “too busy” to visit with someone. With today’s technology, you can chat with anyone, anytime, anywhere, if you have a phone signal. A Pew Research survey found that 97% of Americans own a type of cellphone.
You can use tech in retirement by staying connected with your friends and family. If you can’t physically visit with someone, consider setting up a phone date so you can catch up, or you can always send someone a text letting them know you’re thinking of them! Use today’s technology to help keep you and your friendships alive.
2. Learn a new skill
Learning something new does not have an age limit. No matter your age, you should always work on yourself and continue learning about different aspects of life. In retirement, you will likely find that you have loads of free time on your hands. Take advantage of this time by learning a new skill. You can learn anything from a new language, baking, and knitting. The list is truly endless with today’s tech!
3. Have an income in retirement
According to Go Banking Rates, the average U.S. retiree has $168,000 saved away for retirement. Although this might seem like a substantial amount, think about how long you plan to live without an income. If you retire at 65, how much money do you think you need to retire? It would help if you thought about your spending habits, any vacations you plan on taking, holidays, and your bills.
Consider using tech in retirement to create an income. You can find many side hustles online, such as freelancing, tutoring, food delivery, dog walking, or selling arts and crafts. Use the knowledge you gained in the workforce to become an entrepreneur and live out retirement stress-free about money!
4. Apply for health insurance
The U.S. government offers health insurance, known as Medicare, to those 65 years and older and others who qualify earlier due to disability benefits. Applying for Medicare and navigating the different Medicare plans can be overwhelming. Thankfully, tech today can help improve this experience for you. Instead of waiting in a long line in person at the Social Security office, you can apply for Medicare online through their website.
Medicare will send you a Medicare & You handbook before your Initial Enrollment Period, but this booklet will not cover every detail you should know about Medicare. Take advantage of tech in retirement to become familiar with your Medicare plan options online and avoid costly mistakes.
5. Travel easier
How many of you remember having a physical map on hand and planning your routes before heading off on your road trip? Tech in retirement allows you to ditch the road map and drive without distractions! A GPS navigation system allows you to type in an address, and the system will guide you to your destination electronically.
Luckily, the GPS navigation system has advanced over the years, as it many can now tell you how many miles you have until you need to exit, which exit to take, if there is traffic, and much more. Many smartphones include a GPS, but you can buy a physical GPS and install it in your car if you don’t have a smartphone.
Final point
Technology can be used for good and help improve your retirement experience! Consider these five ways to make good use of tech in retirement when you make your next tech purchase.