Convenience of Delivery Apps for Seniors

Delivery App Advantages for Seniors

By Vicki Wood

Photo byJeff SheldononUnsplash

Apps can be difficult to navigate. But, for seniors, it is even more confusing. Those over 60 years old are becoming more adept in the digital world. Many times it is for the convenience that it affords grandparents to communicate or see their beloved young ones miles away.

There are apps that can also make the elderly life more comfortable and add conveniences. Sometimes they need assistance to discover these digital applications. I found this out while assisting my 79-year-old father in downloading and navigation of the DoorDash app. He fairly knew how to download an app to his IPhone. But he was unsure of the safety of attaching a payment method to the app. Digital security of assets is a big concern for seniors. They are a group that is familiar with fraud targets so they are especially vigilant with their accounts.

Photo byErik McleanonUnsplash

On the other side of caution, if seniors will trust well known, secure apps like DoorDash, they can have some wonderful conveniences, especially in an incapacitated state. Home bound folks can receive deliveries to their doorstep, with privacy intact. DoorDash, UberEats, and others deliver the requested items to your front door, take a pic to text to the recepient, drop the items and go. If one is ill, this is a invaluable service for needs without going out of the house. For example, cough syrup is needed, and maybe a half-gallon of milk, too. The DoorDash app allows the customer to easily order those items from the nearest Dollar General, even in the smallest towns. My town only has five stores that are utilizing DoorDash delivery service. Dollar General is one that offers about anything one could need in a crisis from medicine, to diapers, to eggs.

Most national fast food restaurants are also on DoorDash, such as McDonalds, Taco Bell, and Hardee's, even in towns of low populations. Another perk of the DoorDash as a grandparent is the ability to easily gift deliveries. All one needs is the physical address of where they want to send a treat. With six grandkids spread out all over the U.S., Valentine's Day deliveries were made with ease on the app, with all receiving stuffed animals and chocolates from Walgreens when they arrived home from school.

Other apps that make life easier for seniors track medication, give free audio books, and get emergency notifications.