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Choosing the right setup for your seniorConnected Life is a great choice even if your senior loved one is affected by advanced aging issues. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, so we offer a variety of ways to set up Connected Life to deal with the particular needs of your senior.
Highly capable seniors can just use the Connected Life app along with the other functions of the iPad. You can add our recommended SeniorSafe iPad settings if you think your senior may get confused by the iPad. If your senior has more advanced challenges, though, you will want to use one of the setup options listed below.
Regardless of your senior’s capabilities, we recommend that you read all of the options so you can be confident that you’ve made the best choice. If you are having difficulty making a choice or do not find an option that works for you, visit our Help Center and we will work with you to set up things so that you and your senior have a great Connected Life experience.
Option 1: Use a TV to display Connected Life
Senior abilities required:
View details on how to set up Connected Life on a dedicated TV screen.
Option 2: Share a TV with Connected Life and other programsIf your senior can handle moderate complexity, they can enjoy the benefits of displaying Connected Life on a TV screen while sharing the TV with their favorite entertainment and news programs. The iPad is mounted in a stand next to the TV so Connected Life is never out-of-sight, out-of-mind. The iPad is connected through a simple HDMI switch box that uses a 2-button remote to select Connected Life or broadcast programming.
Before choosing this option, consider carefully whether your senior could handle a simple, two-button remote to switch between Connected Life and other TV programs. To use this option, your senior must receive TV programming through an HDMI connection using a cable box, a streaming device such as Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV Stick, or similar.
View details on how to set up Connected Life on a shared TV.
Option 3: Use Auto-play in a stand near your senior
This option has many advantages but also carries the risk that your senior may have problems using it. You will want to think through the risks carefully before choosing this option. It should not be used if your senior or their caregivers cannot handle some basic tasks such as these:
If you choose this option, you should also consider whether your senior may accidentally tap the wrong thing on the iPad and get lost. If your senior is uncomfortable navigating the iPad or may get lost when using it, choose the SeniorSafe iPad settings described here.
View details on how to set up Connected Life with Auto-play on a stand.
Option 4: Use Interactive Mode in a stand near your seniorMore capable seniors who can use the full power of Interactive Mode may still need help with some of the basics such as keeping the iPad handy, handling its weight and keeping the iPad at the right angle for video calls. This is a good option for those who want the full power of our interactive app but it comes with additional responsibilities that your senior will need to handle.
Like using Auto-play in a stand, your senior will need to be able to handle the basics including leaving the iPad plugged in and getting into position to use the iPad or stay on-screen for video calls. In addition, your senior will be responsible for remembering to check in with Connected Life including,
Before choosing this option, consider carefully whether your senior will remember and be motivated to check in on their own. Connected Life can make a big difference for them but only if they take the initiative to check in regularly.
If you choose this option, you should also consider whether your senior may accidentally tap the wrong thing on the iPad and get lost. If your senior is uncomfortable navigating the iPad or may get lost when using it, choose the SeniorSafe iPad settings described here.
View details on how to set up Connected Life with Interactive Mode on a stand.
Option 5: Use the iPad as normal and enjoy the Connected Life app![]()
Many seniors can use an iPad just fine but still want the simplicity of the all-in-one Connected Life app for staying connected with their family and care providers. These seniors will want a portable iPad with Connected Life in Interactive Mode. In this setup, the senior can pick up their iPad and use it whenever and wherever they want. Depending on the choice of case, they can also prop up the iPad to watch content or participate in Connected Life conversations.
An iPad setup in Interactive Mode is the best solution for seniors who are comfortable using an iPad and want to take advantage of its full power. It also demands the highest level of skill and comfort from the senior. It should not be used unless your senior can perform all of these tasks consistently:
Some seniors can do all of these things yet may find the iPad itself daunting or confusing. They may accidentally tap the wrong thing on the iPad and get lost. If your senior has these challenges, you should also implement the SeniorSafe settings described here.
Make your selectionGetting your senior comfortable with Connected Life is all about matching their iPad setup with their capabilities. With the right setup, your loved one will enjoy many hours of sharing photos, notes, reminders, staying in touch with what is happening around them, and participating in video calls.
Consider your selection carefully, as every senior is different. Contact Us any time with questions or to discuss special circumstances.
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