10 apps for older users
With hundreds of thousands of apps, there's something for everyone. Here are 10 apps some experts recommended for older users:
AARP (free), for iPhone, iPod and Android, offers versions of its four magazines, plus lets members share content from AARP.org via Facebook, Twitter or email; watch AARP video clips; and keep on top of the latest discounts. Members even get an electronic card, which they can use instead of a paper card to get discounts.
The EyeReader ($1.99), designed for iPhone4 users, magnifies and lights up small type, whether it's a restaurant menu or prescription bottle. Developer Gerry Lavender says he's testing a version for Android phones.
WebMD (free), for iPhone, iPad and Android. This app has all sorts of uses, from checking symptoms; a guide to first aid essentials; a database of information on drugs and treatments; a pill identification tool; and local health listings of physicians, hospitals and pharmacies, based on your current location.
Tonic ($4.99), a health reminder, is pricey, but the app is easy to use, intuitive and customizable. It not only reminds you to take medication, but you can track and organize therapies, biometrics, exercise routines, diet, symptoms, etc. -- and then email them to your doctors. Available for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.
Automed (99 cents) is a less-expensive option that lets you set reminders for taking medications. The app runs in the background, and alerts you when it's time to take the medications. Available for iPhone and iPod Touch.
The Fit Friendzy -- Exercise Challenge Tracker (free) for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch, has more than 150 exercise challenges, from walking 30 minutes a day to running a marathon. It tracks exercises, time worked out, distance, speed and total calories burned. Users can compete against each other in challenges.
Calorie Tracker by Livestrong ($2.99), for iPhone, iPad and BlackBerry, has an extensive list of foods, restaurant menu items and exercise activities, as well as key nutritional information and how many calories are burned for each exercise. It lets you set calorie and fitness goals, and log what you've done.
Cooking Light Recipes Quick and Healthly Menu Maker ($3.99) for iPad. This app draws from 300 recipes for main dishes, sides and desserts.
Skype Most smartphones, as well as the iPad and iTouch, now have this free app for videoconferencing.
Southwest Airlines (free), the major air carrier at Long Island MacArthur Airport, has an app for iPhone and Android that's great for grabbing that "A" boarding pass while on the road. Users can also make reservations, check a flight's status and book car rentals.
