Staying Connected While Navigating Technology Changes: What Retirees Need to Know

Technology is constantly evolving, and keeping up with the changes can feel overwhelming, especially for retirees who have grown comfortable with certain tools and platforms. Microsoft recently announced it is phasing out Skype in May. The video calling platform was once a dominant communication tool, but it has been overshadowed in recent years by many of its competitors.  The change means many retirees will have to find an alternative to keep in touch with their family who could be spread out around the country or the world. 

Dave Popowich admits, "Technology changes drive me crazy, and I'm not getting any better at handling that change. Skype was something a lot of people relied on, and now it's going away. That just sets off anxiety for me."

Tech expert Marc Saltzman says while change can be difficult, it often brings better solutions. "I get it, people don’t like change, especially when they’ve been using the same software for years," Marc said. "But the good news is that newer platforms are often more secure, more user-friendly, and packed with helpful features."

For retirees, technology changes can be frustrating, but they also present an opportunity to embrace those new and potentially better tools. The only caveat is you need to be on the same calling platform as the person you are trying to call.

Here are some ways to ease the transition:

Seek Out User-Friendly Alternatives:

Anyone with a Skype account can transition over to Microsoft Teams for free.  Marc Saltzman says if you sign into teams with your Skype login information it will transfer all your contacts into Teams.  Then you just need to let all of your contacts know that you’re going to be using Teams instead of Skype.

There are also other options like Zoom, WhatsApp, or FaceTime as well. Look for a platform that suits your needs and comfort level.  You can also reach out to your contacts and find out what they’d prefer to use instead.  

Take Advantage of Tutorials:

Many tech companies provide video guides and step-by-step instructions. YouTube can be a great resource for learning how to use new apps.  That can help ease the fears about taking new software.

Ask for Help:

Friends, family, or even local community centers and libraries often offer tech workshops or one-on-one assistance. "If you're struggling, reach out," Dave says. "Chances are, someone you know has already figured it out."

Practice Patience:

Learning something new takes time but staying open-minded can make the process smoother. "Nobody expects you to get it right away," Leanna says. "It's okay to take it step by step."

Stay Informed:

Keeping up with technology news can help retirees anticipate changes and prepare in advance. "Tech is always evolving, and staying informed will help you feel more in control," Marc says.

Rather than viewing tech changes as obstacles, retirees can see them as opportunities to stay connected, secure, and engaged in today’s digital world. With the right mindset and resources, adapting to new tools can become less of a challenge and more of a rewarding experience.