Accessible Technology in Social Care: A Guide for Salisbury & Andover

At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we believe technology should empower people, not exclude them. In today’s increasingly digital world, technology offers real opportunities for older adults and individuals with disabilities to feel more connected, more independent, and better supported in everyday life.

But technology can also feel intimidating, especially if you haven’t grown up with it. That’s why accessible technology is so important in the social care sector here in Salisbury, Andover, and surrounding villages.

Why Accessible Technology Matters in Homecare

For many older people across Wiltshire and Hampshire, simple technologies can make a huge difference. The right tools can help individuals:

Stay in touch with family via video calls
Manage medication with digital reminders
Feel more in control with voice-activated lights, heating, or TV
Stay safe with fall alarms or GPS tracking

Whether someone is living with dementia, has limited mobility, or simply wants more confidence using a smartphone, accessible technology can play a powerful role.

Examples of Easy-to-Use Technology

Here are some helpful devices and tools we recommend to Clients across Salisbury & Andover:

Smart speakers (e.g., Alexa, Google Home) - for reminders, music, or weather updates
Simplified tablets or smartphones - ideal for video calling family or using care apps
Digital pill dispensers - to avoid missed or incorrect medications
Voice-controlled or large-button phones
Apps for food shopping, GP bookings, or wellbeing monitoring

These tools help support safe, independent living - and reduce the need for in-person support.

Top Accessible Mobile Phones for Seniors

Looking for a simple, senior-friendly handset in Salisbury or Andover? Here are some of the best:

1. Doro 8100 - Smart, simple interface, loud volume, emergency assistance

2. Nokia 105 - Classic, reliable, no internet required

3. Doro 6620 Flip Phone - Easy-to-use buttons, camera, loud speaker

4. Emporia SMART.5 - Android-style layout with big icons and tutorials

5. TTfone TT110 - Excellent for visual impairments with talking keypad

Tip: Look for large text, long battery life, loud volume, and an SOS button.

Local Technology Help in Salisbury & Andover

Not sure where to start with technology? These local services can help older adults and CareGivers:

Digital Access & Support

AbilityNet via Age UK Wiltshire - Free home technology support
Wiltshire Digital Drive - Donates refurbished laptops/tablets to older adults
Get Connected by Safer & Supportive Salisbury - Help with video calls, apps, and online access

Assistive Technology & Telecare

Carer Support Wiltshire & Wiltshire Council - Help setting up fall alarms, medication reminders, GPS trackers
Wiltshire Council Telecare Services - Referral-based technology to improve home safety

Digital Classes & Community Hubs

Salisbury Library & Wiltshire Libraries - Free internet, training sessions, and even SIM cards
Local Community Hubs - e.g., Silver Salisbury events often include digital help

Social Learning & Peer Support

Silver Salisbury, Age UK Wiltshire, Carers Together - Gentle technology demostrations at coffee mornings and peer-run training

Why Technology Confidence Matters in Care

Accessible technology is about more than gadgets, it's about restoring confidence, improving daily living, and helping people stay independent in their own homes.

At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, our CareGivers regularly help Clients with:

Setting up video calls with family
Using apps for medication or calendars
Playing favourite music through smart speakers
Exploring online hobbies or local events