End-of-Year Tech Check: A Guide for Families
The end of the year, when families often gather, is a perfect time for a quick tech check with an older parent. Half an hour together can make their devices safer and easier to use, and gives everyone peace of mind for the year ahead.
This guide is a simple checklist you can work through together, with no rush and no jargon. If you are helping an older parent get online, see our wider guide to helping a parent go online.
Quick answer
Check five things together: that important passwords are strong and written down safely, that the phone and tablet are backed up, that updates are installed, that emergency contacts and medical info are set, and that they feel confident spotting a scam. Each one is quick, and together they make a real difference.
1. Check passwords
Make sure the important accounts, especially email and bank, have strong passwords, and that they are written down somewhere safe at home. Our guide on creating a strong password can help. Turn on two-step verification where it is offered.
2. Check the backup
Make sure their phone and tablet are backing up, so precious photos are safe. Our guide on backing up an iPhone or iPad shows how to check it is working.
3. Install updates
Install any waiting software updates on their devices. Updates often improve security and fix small problems. It takes a few minutes and is well worth doing while you are there to help.
4. Check emergency details
Make sure emergency contacts and medical information are set up, so help can be reached from the lock screen. Our guides cover this for iPhone and Android. If they live alone, this is also a good moment to talk about a medical alarm.
5. Talk about scams
Have a gentle chat about the scams going around, so they feel confident rather than worried. Remind them that banks and government agencies never ask for passwords or codes, and that it is always fine to hang up and call back. Our phone scam and email scam guides are good to read together.
Before you finish
Download the free Family Tech Safety Checklist to help check phone safety, passwords, scam messages, emergency contacts and medical alarm details.
FAQ: End-of-year tech check
How long does a tech check take?
About half an hour for the basics. You do not have to do it all at once. Even doing one or two items is worthwhile.
My parent is not very confident with technology. Where do I start?
Start with backups and emergency contacts, as these matter most. Keep it relaxed and positive, and celebrate each thing you tick off.
Should I write anything down for them?
Yes. A short note of their main passwords, kept safe at home, and a simple list of who to call for help, are both very useful.
How often should we do this?
Once a year is a good rhythm, and the end of the year is an easy time to remember. You can also check in if anything changes, like a new phone.
What if we find a problem we cannot fix?
That is fine. Note it down and seek help. Our guide on free tech help for seniors lists places that can assist.
