How can seniors manage screen use while staying socially connected?

Track screen time over a week to notice patterns, then intentionally slot in tech-free social routines like neighborhood walks or phone-only catch-ups. Family can help by teaching one or two simple apps so video calls remain manageable, then offering reminders when it is time to pause. Encourage movement or stretching after a session to reset posture and give the eyes a break, aiming for 20 seconds of focus on something 20 feet away every 20 minutes to ease strain. Use shared calendars or group texts to coordinate in-person visits and pair digital interaction with handwritten cards or newspapers. For those with sleep issues, avoid screens at least an hour before bed and let caregivers adjust screen brightness, contrast, and text size to mindfully reduce sensory overload. Keeping a notebook of mood or energy changes related to screen use can highlight the right balance, and chat with a primary care provider or occupational therapist if discomfort, dizziness, or significant fatigue shows up so they can rule out vision or neurological concerns.

Seniors can set gentle timers for 30 to 45 minute sessions, turn on “night light” settings to reduce blue light, and balance video chats with phone calls or walks after screen time. Keep devices at eye level, use larger fonts, and ask family to help adjust accessibility so tech feels comfortable.