Thankful for technology; my tech friends | Letter

Published: Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 8:59 am

Technology Aids Independent Living for Senior Citizen

Scarborough, Maine – A local resident, at the age of 86, is expressing gratitude for the role technology plays in maintaining her independence. In a recent letter, the individual highlighted the integral part various devices have in her daily life, referring to them as "tech friends."

The woman's technological ecosystem includes a 14-year-old desktop computer, a television equipped with Roku, an iPad, an iPhone, and an Apple Watch, which she acquired for safety reasons approximately six months ago. She emphasizes the interconnectedness of these devices and their importance in her daily routine.

The letter details recent instances where these "tech friends" came to her aid. When her Roku device malfunctioned, she turned to her computer for assistance. After trying a few things, she found visual instructions online that resolved the issue.

The letter also recounts a humorous incident involving the Apple Watch. While using the timer function, she accidentally deleted it. Resolving the problem required over 90 minutes of troubleshooting, including entering her Apple password and receiving a one-time code on her cellphone.

The author, who playfully refers to herself as "Quick Draw McGraw" when interacting with technology, underscores the challenges and rewards of navigating the digital world as a senior citizen. The letter serves as a testament to the value of technology in enabling independent living and the importance of digital literacy across all age groups.

BNN's Perspective: This story highlights the positive impact technology can have on the lives of seniors, enabling them to maintain their independence and stay connected. While the challenges of navigating complex systems are acknowledged, the overall message is one of empowerment and the benefits of embracing the digital age. It underscores the need for accessible technology and user-friendly interfaces to ensure that all individuals can benefit from these advancements.

Keywords: technology, senior citizen, independence, Roku, Apple Watch, iPad, iPhone, digital literacy, troubleshooting, user-friendly, digital age

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