For family members helping an older adult learn
If you're an adult child or grandchild helping an older parent or relative learn to use technology more safely, this section is for you. The most important advice: lead with patience and respect. Older adults aren't bad at technology — they're learning a new language that you spoke from childhood.
Don't do tasks for them — guide them through tasks themselves. They'll be in the same spot next month if you've been pushing the buttons.
Key habits
- Start with the most useful and least scary feature: making the screen text bigger. Almost everyone wants this and it builds confidence.
- Set up two-factor authentication on their most important accounts (bank, email) together. Walk through it slowly.
- Agree on a "code word" for emergencies. If anyone calls claiming to be a family member in trouble, the code word verifies them.
- Encourage them to use Helper Mode in KeepUp Academy — they can share their progress with you so you know what they're learning.
- Be patient with the same question asked multiple times. Repetition is how anyone learns a new skill.
- Don't ridicule mistakes. Older adults who feel embarrassed about tech will hide problems instead of asking for help — and that's when scams succeed.