Here are some basic commands for setting up reminders, alarms, and timers that a senior would need to use and understand when using a virtual assistant: 1. Reminders: a. “Alexa, set a reminder for [time] to [task]” b. “Alexa, remind me to [task] every [day/time]” 2. Alarms: a. “Alexa, set an alarm for [time] with […]
Customizing settings for accessibility Many seniors have disabilities such as vision loss, or arthritis and virtual assistants often have accessibility features that can be customized to meet the needs of seniors with disabilities. Here are some ideas for customizing the settings for accessibility: 1. Voice control: The main feature of virtual assistants is voice control, […]
Connecting to Wi-Fi These tools require a connection to Wi-Fi here is a simplified step-by-step process for connecting a virtual assistant to Wi-Fi: 1. Turn on the virtual assistant: Turn on the virtual assistant and wait for it to boot up. 2. Find the Wi-Fi settings: Open the settings menu on the virtual assistant. This […]
The steps outlined yesterday are specific to setting up an Amazon Echo Dot and the Alexa virtual assistant. However, the general process of setting up a virtual assistant is similar across different devices and platforms. Here are some general steps that can be applied to setting up most virtual assistants: 1. […]
A step-by-step guide to setting up an Echo device. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up an Amazon Echo Dot for a senior who is not tech-savvy: 1. Unbox the device: Start by unboxing the Echo Dot and all its accessories, including the power adapter and charging cable. Make sure […]
Introduction to companion devices like Echo Dot, Echo Show, etc. Alexa is the virtual assistant software that powers a range of Amazon-branded devices, including the Echo Dot, Echo Show, and other companion devices. While Alexa is the brains behind these devices, each one offers unique features and capabilities. Here are some examples of how the […]
1. Through a Food Network agreement, Alexa will now be able to assist users in the preparation of meals. Customers will be able to use their Echo Show devices to view recipes and take cooking lessons. This will include requests such as “Alexa, show Bobby Flay cooking lessons,” “Alexa, how many chicken thighs should I […]
Here is an overview of Alexa’s features: 1. Voice recognition: Alexa recognizes a user’s voice and responds to commands without pushing buttons. 2. Smart Home Integration: Alexa can control a variety of smart home devices, including lights, thermostats, and security systems, allowing users to operate their homes with voice commands. Alexa controls your lights, door […]
Many of my friends are interested in using virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa. So I created a guide for them to use. Over the next few posts, I will share that with you. Hopefully, you find it interesting and useful as well. A brief history of virtual assistants When I started teaching, I taught […]
Last thoughts on subjective ageing. Modern medicine should be adding life to years; not just more years to life. According to Stats Canada, there were over 861,000 people aged 85 and older counted in the 2021 Census, more than twice the number observed in the 2001 Census. The population aged 85 and older is one […]
