To celebrate and honour the older adults in our community, Irish Girl Guide members are teaching digital skills. This past week, Leaders from 10 new Units across Ireland joined a growing cohort of Hi Digital trained Members.
In total, 30 Units are ready to work with older people on the island, which include 60 Leaders and 402 Guides (10-14 y.o.) and Senior Branch (14-30 y.o.).
Since Irish Girl Guides started the partnership with Vodafone Foundation, over 2,000 older people have learned new skills, and this number will continue to expand.
The members learned about some of the barriers older adults face in navigating the digital landscape and how they can help combat social and digital isolation through the Hi Digital programme in partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.
The Units host sessions in their community centres, in parish churches, in Men’s and Women’s Sheds and Active Retirement Groups. Hi Digital sessions last one to two hours and the older adults get a chance not only to learn new skills but also to chat over a cup of tea or a mug of soup.
Learning digital skills is not just about understanding the step-by-step instructions but building confidence and skills towards a more independent life. This is achieved through comprehensive education that demonstrates not just how singular apps work but through universal symbols and recognizable instructions while supporting the growing confidence in the older adult.
One older participant said, “I feel more at ease, knowing that much more about my phone”. While the Irish Girl Guides grow into confident Leaders, they are also helping show the older adult’s new ways to lead more independent lives as they navigate their phones. As one Clogherhead Senior Branch member highlighted, “it was really great for our personal growth but also our community growth”.
Each new 7 Series model – the Smart7.Lite, and Smart.ME7 – comes with a user-replaceable battery with a standby time of almost 10 days. The battery has been tested for at least 1,000 charging cycles and the charging capacity can be limited to 80 per cent to ensure longevity and we will be taking two of the models for a test over the coming weeks and will have a full review soon so check the unboxing below and if you need anything answered you know what to do..
In addition, spare parts for the 7 Series are guaranteed to be available for at least seven years, plus there is a guaranteed five-generation Android upgrade path. The three models will ship with Android 15, with an update to the newly announced Android 16 due in early 2026.
“Our customers are not mobile phone hoppers who buy a new smartphone every year or two, which is why we have designed the new 7 series with durability in mind”, explains emporia marketing director, Karin Schaumberger.
Security in mind
Thanks to NFC and a fingerprint sensor, users don’t have to worry when banking online or logging into digital government services. emporia also prioritizes the implementation of Android security patches; 7 Series smartphones will be automatically updated to the latest security level.
“Security is a key selling point for our customers, and there can be no compromises in this regard,” explains Karin Schaumberger.
With personal security in mind, 7 Series smartphones feature emporia’s signature ‘No Panic’ button – an external, directly accessible button so you can more easily call for help in an emergency. The button can alternatively be configured as a shortcut to a favourite function – for example, offering instant access to the Google Gemini voice assistant.
Enhanced usability
The new 7 Series can be used in standard Android mode or with the streamlined emporia interface, which makes it easier to find and use core functionality including calls, emails and favourite apps. The emporia Info Centre collates all notifications from multiple sources – from emails and WhatsApp messages to calendar or voicemail alerts – so you can catch up with a single glance.
Also on board is the new Flash Notification option, which means you’ll never miss a call or message again when your phone is on silent. Incoming calls and messages are signalled by both the screen and backlight flashing.
To help simplify things further still, the free emporiaCOACH app helps digital newcomers and switchers to quickly familiarise themselves with their smartphone.
Compact format
The 7 Series comes in a pocket-friendly 5.45in format; there will be no 6.6in option as in previous ranges. Each model features a triple-lens camera plus selfie camera.
“The demand for more manageable smartphones remains strong, and the feedback from our customers is clear,” explains Karin Schaumberger.
Model differences – all about the extras
All new 7 Series models include the core functionality detailed above. The difference come in the extras supplied with each model.
Smart7.Lite – £250/€250 The bestseller comes as standard with emporia’s patented Smartcover, which allows key functions to be used even while closed. It offers slimline protection for both screen and casing. It also comes with a handy docking cradle, which cuts cable-clutter when charging but also provides a nicely angled hands-free calling hub.
Smart7.Mini – £200/€200 Comes with the docking cradle as standard, but not the Smartcover.
Smart.ME7 – £200/€200 Supports full Android mainstream; no extras supplied as standard.
Availability
The emporia 7 Series will be available to buy this month, from stockists including Amazon.
Recently Doro introduced a new trio of devices to their portfolio for 2025 which was the Aurora A10 Aurora A20 and the device we have here today the Doro Aurora A30 the top of the range device.
Aimed at more capable seniors you could say this is a fully fledged Android device with their own Doro Easy Interface on top which you can easily switch around from one to the other and an important feature on board is TeamViewer which enables others to access the phone in real time for those in need, we can look at this later on.
A recent Doro study revealed that 51% of seniors worry about pressing the wrong thing on their devices, while 49% struggle with app navigation. To address these challenges, the phones feature three physical buttons for easy calling and a dedicated home key, making navigation simpler for all users, including those with impaired sight or dexterity. The devices, with the buttons and their streamlined interface, also provide quick access to Google Gemini features. With loud and clear sound quality powered by Doro ClearSound, they ensure crystal-clear communication.
Over the next few weeks we will be testing this device out and if you have any questions need answering feel free to ask us on all our socials and do check out the unboxing video below for more and watch out for more videos..
Doro Secure™ Button – One-touch access to immediate support and assistance.
Doro Easy™ Interface – A simplified smartphone experience tailored for all users.
Loud and Clear Sound – Doro ClearSound ensures optimised audio for enhanced clarity.
Remote Support – Loved ones can provide assistance remotely, reducing stress and ensuring a seamless experience.
Eco-Friendly Design – Crafted with recycled materials, reflecting Doro’s commitment to sustainability.
Easy charging – The Doro Aurora wireless charger makes charging easy and seamlessly blends into the home environment. It is ideal for hands-free video calling and comes with a dimmable light to be able to see at night easily. Available for purchase separately to the phones or as a bundle.
In a bold move to redefine the elderly care and smart living eco-system, Gamgee BV has released a Wi-Fi Fall Protection system. This innovative technology promises to dramatically enhance the lives of seniors by offering an unobtrusive yet highly effective safety net. By harnessing the power of Wi-Fi signals, this system marks a significant departure from traditional fall detection methods, eliminating the need for wearables and invasive cameras.
No Wearables Required: Leveraging advanced Wi-Fi technology, our system operates without the need for any wearables, gadgets, or cameras, providing comfort and convenience for seniors.
Presence and Fall Detection: With high accuracy and no false alarms, the system reliably detects falls, ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones.
Real-Time Alerts: The moment a fall is detected, the system immediately notifies family members and caregivers, enabling swift action to be taken.
Comprehensive Health Monitoring: By analyzing daily activity patterns, the system provides invaluable health insights, allowing for proactive health management.
Real-Time Alerts: The moment a fall is detected, the system immediately notifies family members and caregivers, enabling swift action to be taken.
Comprehensive Health Monitoring: By analyzing daily activity patterns and health insights, the system provides invaluable health insights, allowing for proactive health management.
Paul Hendriks, CEO and Co-Founder of Gamgee, emphasized the emotional and practical benefits of the new system, stating, “We’re not just launching a product; we’re launching a new era of compassionate, tech-smart eldercare. Our technology doesn’t just protect; it empowers and connects, enhancing the lives of our seniors and their families.”
Similar to fall protection, Gamgee also introduces its Wi-Fi Home Alarm System, leveraging the technology to distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar movements within the home. This not only enhances home security but also significantly cuts down on false alarms, simplifying home safety in a smart, efficient way.
Additional Features and Future Plans:
Automatic System Management: The system intelligently arms and disarms itself based on family presence, making security seamless and hassle-free.
Integration with Smart Home Devices: Looking forward, Gamgee plans to integrate this system with other Wi-Fi-enabled home devices, paving the way for a fully automated, smart living environment.
The emporia SMART.6 is the latest phone on offer from the company that attends the needs of our senior community, we have been testing their products for some time now and this is one of their latest products on offer but stay tuned for more over the coming weeks and they really upped their game.
The SMART.6 is the newest mobile phone and it has come on in terms of specs and features however keeping it simple for the seniors out there, today’s smartphones are getting more complicated with settings and features buried in sub menus which is annoying and emporia take out the difficulty of navigating a smartphone.
With this user-friendly 5G smartphone with top features, emporia is opening a new chapter. With the new E series, the technology leader for easy-to-use smartphones is aimed at self-confident people who value a high-end product that is easy to use, offers product security thanks to regular Android updates and meets all the standards that apply today be placed on a smartphone.
Technically, the emporia E6 plays in the same league as the Samsung A series or Apple refurbished. Latest 5G technology, top camera and Camera Pro, NFC, fingerprint sensor, voice input. The emporia E6 is a product that was created in collaboration directly with the target group. In countries such as the Federal Republic of Germany, Great Britain, Italy and France there were workshops in which the participants defined their demands and wishes for the smartphone of the future. The result: “A smartphone as it should be”.
Despite the high-tech equipment, the Linz-based company has not forgotten what has made the company a technology leader and three-time senior smartphone manufacturer of the year with the emporia E6: ease of use thanks to the patented emporia surface, state-of-the-art technical support for people with limited hearing. And don’t forget the patented Emporia emergency call function, if you want to feel safe going home at night or if you have fallen while mountain biking or hiking and need help quickly.
Check out what you get this time around with the unboxing of the device and we will take it off and test it out over the coming weeks so if you have any questions feel free to ask.
Features
Popular 5G smartphone, 6.58 inch touch display
Contemporary, Android 13
Beautiful photos, triple main camera 50+2+TOF megapixels
From the company spearheading innovation in senior technology, comes a new, unique audio device. Today, Doro, the European market leader in senior mobile phones, announces the launch of its expertly sound enhanced Doro HearingBuds, designed to meet the evolving needs of senior users.
With Doro research showing that over one quarter of seniors (29%) have a hearing impairment, the Bluetooth-enabled Doro HearingBuds, which are compatible with both Android and iOS devices, provide seniors with a rich and more natural sound experience.
Doro HearingBuds are equipped with advanced sound technology, including professional hearing enhancement algorithms that are frequently used in hearing aids. The acoustical design prioritises a natural and superior sound experience while reducing occlusion. This makes them the ideal choice for those who struggle to hear and follow conversations in loud environments and those who would benefit from personalised audio settings when watching TV. They also provide seniors with clear, high-quality sound when listening to their favourite music, podcasts or watching media on their chosen device.
They have pre-set profiles which optimise the quality of speech frequencies, television or media audio and enhance the natural sound balance in the environment in which the user finds themselves. Whether they’re in a busy café or restaurant for a family dinner with lots of background noise and chatter. Or at home watching television where the volume has crept up to an uncomfortable level for others also watching with regular hearing. The HearingBuds help them to isolate and focus on the sounds. These settings can be easily adjusted via the HearingBuds app. There is also a transient block function, protecting the user’s ears against sudden, loud sounds.
And users won’t have to worry about the battery dying quickly. The compact case can fully charge the Doro HearingBuds three times before it requires a recharge.
To ensure a smooth start up, there is a hearing test, which creates a personalised hearing profile for the user after a short evaluation sequence. Hearing settings can be saved and edited within the different app profiles according to the users’ preferences – this includes settings that adjust the range of audio focus and fine tune the HearingBuds to optimise users hearing comfort.
A Fast Pair system for android users, as well as Bluetooth pairing for iOS devices, ensures that all users can benefit from the HearingBuds, no matter their preference.
Thanks to the automatic left/right detection technology, the Doro HearingBuds sense the ear they are placed in and adapt the sound accordingly, so there can be no confusion about which HearingBud to place in which ear.
Doro recommend that users allow for a two-to-four-week period of regular use of the HearingBuds to allow time for their ears to tune in to the enhanced sound experience and reap the full benefits.
Doro HearingBuds are available to purchase via the Doro website and on Amazon UK for £360 (UK) and €399 (Ireland).
Peter Marsden, MD Doro UK & Ireland says: “We’re constantly looking at ways to address the evolving and expanding needs of seniors, as shown through the launch of our Doro Tablet and Doro Watch, two recent additions to the Doro family.
The new Doro HearingBuds build on this offering, providing our customers with the quality, simplicity and clarity required from an everyday, in-ear audio device. They have been designed for those who are beginning to sense a loss of audio clarity in certain environments and scenarios.
With unique sound amplification, seamless design and easy-to-use settings, the special features and streamlined app make the Doro HearingBuds the ultimate choice for seniors.”
Dr Nedelko Grbic, MD ExAudio AB.: “When using technology, users with hearing impairments often amplify the sound to potentially harmful levels in order to gain clarity. In addition to this, people typically wait up to 10 years before they seek professional hearing support or advice.
When designing the HearingBuds, we found a solution to this problem. They are built to amplify speech and sound frequencies to fall within the users specific hearing ability, toning down noise signals that would otherwise mask the speech. They are also equipped with technology which automatically adjusts the dynamic range of each frequency – preventing loud and uncomfortable sound amplification, which could cause further damage to the ears.”
Full list of features:
Easy grip with three sizes of silicone tips – allowing for a customisable fit
Natural, Hi-Fi quality sound without the isolating impact of noise cancellation
Easy-to-use, simplified app and pre-defined hearing profiles
Fast Pair set up on Android devices (as well as Bluetooth pairing for iOS devices) with hearing test and personalised sound profiles included
Transient block (guard for sudden sound peaks)
Tap control feature, instigating customisable commands (these can be set via the app)
Left/right HearingBud detection
Seamless integration with Android and iOS phones
Compact case which gives the HearingBuds two full charges before needing a recharge
Up to 11 hours of use (after one full charge of the HearingBuds)
Perfect for hands-free phone calls
Capacity for augmented hearing (future integration)
I have many watches and probably too many like smartphones trainers headphones and earbuds but it is what I do and when we go to a store or look online we can see a myriad of these at all price points which is a good thing but as I have said before it can be a convoluted mess for the consumer and not only that on how to use them and this is where Watchovers comes in keeping it simple for those seniors in our lives with a watch that is kinda smart and easy to use that is robust and looks current.
There is one or two caveats which I will get out of the way and that is you need a sim card be it a subscription or you can pay monthly but if you do subscribe you can cancel anytime which is good and a not a tedious operation like it is with our networks which has been in the news enough times and a fine example of that when a family member passes away they get bills and hassle they do not need and you have to jump through hoops to get things fixed and it is a personal bearbug with me and many out there but with Watchovers it is not and the signal sometimes is not the best, Perhaps I would have liked the option to have more watch faces but this is a simple update that can be applied but nonetheless they are keeping to their ethics keeping it simple.
I will not get into to much technical speak here as this is for seniors and granted there is many out there that do have knowledge with smartphones and watches but there is plenty that do not and want a simple product that has no convoluted menu and that is easy to use, I also go through this in the video review below and some of it in the unboxing and walkthrough here.
The watch is simple to use and has a large enough face and looks current you could say it is similar to some Fitbits or Apple watches in looks but this has ONE button on the side which is enough and one touch button on screen, the screen is touch screen with a simplified menu to use and no subfolders as such when you go into it bar the settings one which again is simple to use and see what is in there and does not bring you off on another tangent with other features to set up and get friendly with.
The owner can download and app get things set up for you and the job is done it is a simple operation after that for the person wearing the watch. This can locate call message and more for the app user but some might have issues here privacy, it is not a spy watch as such, but think about the elderly people at home alone your sick relatives your child and much more, if there is an issue they can get in touch with you very fast if the watch does not do it itself with fall detection for example , you can video call and message the user and there is more in there for the user such as geolocation and so on and it is also a great communication device. You have Heart rate Blood pressure and steps monitoring which is consistently accurate alongside other watches I have and wore this whilst using one of my other daily drivers.
Another thing I can standby on is their customer service over the years and that is a vital component in any business which seems to lack aplenty these days.
Check the video review for more below. If you have any other questions do ask in the comments
5 Point Customer Promise:
• Quality Guaranteed
• Safe payments via PayPal®
• 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
• Help when you need it – Full Customer Support
• We got you! Tracking number for every order
Features
• SOS Emergency Alarm • Two Way Voice Communication • Fall Alert with Automatic Calling • GPS Location • GEO-Fence
• Health Monitors • Activity Monitor • Reminders • Alarms • Long Battery Life • Low Battery Alert • Route Recording & Playback
• Watch Finder • Listen Safety Monitor • Remote Camera Photo • Caller Approval • Watch Function • Pre-fitted Sim Card
• Multi-Users • Multi Alert Messaging Methods
When it comes to watches I love them I am a collector and have several smartwatches of my own along with your standard watches, well quite a few and I have only two arms and also two hands but my phone collection is huge too, the same applies to my feet but again I collect highly collectable trainers in the OG colourways but it is what we do where and it is not unusual to see me wearing two watches at a time which I admit looks silly but hey there is more to be worried about in this day and age and one example is our seniors who this watch is intended for which is a good thing and is a product that is not difficult to use with convoluted menus and so on, Watchovers is a company who caters for seniors and more and you will remember from before with other products that cater for young and old and your pets.
They have launched their new watch the Assure 4G which is in for review and it offers a simple watch for seniors with a simple UI rather than a convoluted mess which the standard smartwatch offers today, this also has some fitness options on board but it is all kept simple even over other offerings out there such as fitness trackers and feature watches which tones down on the fully fledged smartwatch but still OTT for the older generation..
Below is listed the features of the watch and a first look and walk-through of the device and we will have a full review soon and of course if you have any questions as always feel free to ask below and watch out for the full review soon..
Features
• SOS Emergency Alarm • Two Way Voice Communication • Fall Alert with Automatic Calling • GPS Location • GEO-Fence
• Health Monitors • Activity Monitor • Reminders • Alarms • Long Battery Life • Low Battery Alert • Route Recording & Playback
• Watch Finder • Listen Safety Monitor • Remote Camera Photo • Caller Approval • Watch Function • Pre-fitted Sim Card
• Multi-Users • Multi Alert Messaging Methods
Mobile phones today are a plenty from dumb phones to high end models but the majority being higher end phones they are a difficult for the seniors to use and adopt. Emporia though is a company that is changing this by offering devices that are easy to use and now they have a smartphone with all the convoluted mess hidden underneath and makes the move from a dumphone/feature phone easy and this also allows you to go further into the submenus should you wish, with most of used stuck in lockdown now and no end in sight just yet the senior community want to learn and stay in touch with family and friends and dumbphones do not allow this to happen where the smart 4 offers it all keeping it simple for everyone and making the switch easy..
The tiled layout is nice and these can be changed you will see a complete walkthrough of the UI below in the video and what the phone can do and it is quite simple and well executed for the desired target market of this device not only that this device is affordable and makes a perfect gift in my opinion, OK it will not blow your mind with the spec sheet or camera but it does the job simple and is powerful enough to keep in touch with social media and more.
Chris Millington, emporia’s UK and Ireland MD comments: “This is an exciting “first” in a new generation of mobiles to join emporia’s portfolio. I’m proud to announce the S4 as our most innovative device yet to the Irish market, working exclusively with An Post Mobile. This phone really responds to some of the more recent challenges and hurdles faced by our senior citizens in everyday life and mobile communication – especially in a modern world of social distancing and contact-free living. We have worked hard to include intuitive and completely audience-relevant features like the pre-installed QR scanner, contactless payment functionality, and improved camera for new features like a magnifier for when you have left your glasses at home.”
This Google-certified smartphone runs on an Android 10 operating system, with an emporia interface that is tailored and adapted to the 66+ year old user.
The smartphone’s 5” screen is easy to read, with large fonts and app icons, and a soft touch coating makes it very easy to hold and use one-handed. Like all emporia devices it is also hearing-aid-compatible and is fitted with an emergency assistance button on the back for peace of mind for users.
The S4 comes complete with emporia’s unique comprehensive 135-page training book, allowing users to learn at their own pace and as a reference point. The concept of this training book extends much beyond instilling confidence and driving independence; it’s imperative to emporia’s customers and responds to how the human brain works and is the catalyst to changing smartphone value for this group.
Key features of the senior S4 smartphone in a new digital world
What makes the S4 different to other smart devices in the emporia range is its following new features that bring the senior user further into the digital world, but in a simple way:
13 megapixel main camera and 8mp selfie camera
In a world where video calls and photo sharing are the most common form of communication, our S4 has an improved camera quality so users can be involved and connected in this way and stay in touch, even if isolated, with family and friends.
QR scanner
The improved processing power on the latest S4 model sees the introduction of a QR scanner, meaning senior users are able to use the NHS track & trace / Ireland’s COVID tracker / Protect Scotland / StopCOVID NI apps, or register their check-ins, for safety and reassurance in a post-pandemic world.
Magnifying function
Most of us experience presbyopia as we age, meaning we need glasses to read and struggle with close up text or smaller fonts. Whilst emporia’s devices are already tailored to help the users to use and enjoy the phone, when users are out and about, reading everyday things like restaurant menus may not be as easy, especially when we leave our glasses at home. This key app is designed to take away that frustration and act as an aid for our customers in everyday life – a reliable companion.
App Installer
There are apps for everything out there, and this can be overwhelming when you need a key app like a track-and-trace, or WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, need to share pictures, check the weather forecast or check the news. The App Installer on the S4 contains a list of the most useful 20 apps, making them all easier to download and locate so the older user gets the key apps straight away.
NFC technology
Whilst NFC or contactless payments in credit and debit cards isn’t new, the new S4 brings NFC (near field communication) technology, or more to the point contactless payments to a new audience. When social distancing and contact-free are the norm, this function can offer a whole new shopping experience for older customers who tend to use cash. With the new 16-page guide to how to set-up Google Pay and the benefits of the security this brings, the retired audience will be equipped for the new era upon us.
