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
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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?
While usability for older users hasn’t been a strong driver in the design of smart phones, tablets and computers there are features that can definitely make these easier for older people to use, so we advise you look out for them. Anecdotally we understand older people are using large screen...
Useful equipment
Am I eligible for a medical alarm?
In New Zealand, there is a cost to rent and monitor a medical alarm and the weekly charge to monitor a medical alarm varies between suppliers. Provided you are eligible for the special Disability Allowance the cost of renting a medical alarm may be fully funded. The medical alarm has...
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...
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How much do hearing aids cost?
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 the MOH criteria. MOH...