Voice assistants let you control devices, get information, and perform tasks simply by speaking. For many seniors, voice control is easier than typing on small screens or navigating complicated menus. This guide will help you understand how voice assistants work and how they can help you.
What is a Voice Assistant?
A voice assistant is software that listens for your voice commands and responds. You speak naturally, and the assistant answers your questions or performs tasks. According to AARP, voice assistants are one of the most helpful technologies for older adults.
What Voice Assistants Can Do
- Set reminders for medications or appointments
- Make phone calls hands-free
- Play music, podcasts, or audiobooks
- Get weather forecasts and news
- Control smart home devices (lights, thermostats)
- Answer questions and look up information
- Send messages to family members
- Set timers for cooking
The Three Main Voice Assistants
There are three main voice assistants you'll encounter:
Amazon Alexa
Wake word: "Alexa"
Found in: Amazon Echo devices, Fire TV
- Best for smart home control
- Excellent for shopping on Amazon
- Thousands of "skills" (extra features)
- Works well with many brands
Best choice for: People who shop on Amazon or want smart home control
Apple Siri
Wake word: "Hey Siri" or "Siri"
Found in: iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, HomePod
- Built into all Apple devices - no extra purchase needed
- Best for calling and texting
- Excellent privacy protection
- Works seamlessly with Apple products
Best choice for: People who already use Apple devices
Google Assistant
Wake word: "Hey Google" or "OK Google"
Found in: Android phones, Google Nest, Pixel devices
- Best at answering questions (uses Google search)
- Excellent voice recognition
- Works with Android phones
- Good smart home support
Best choice for: People who use Android or want the smartest answers
Getting Started: Using Siri on iPhone
If you have an iPhone, you already have Siri. Here's how to start:
Turn On Siri
Go to Settings > Siri & Search > Turn on "Listen for 'Hey Siri'"
Train Siri to Your Voice
Your iPhone will ask you to say a few phrases so Siri learns your voice.
Start Talking
Say "Hey Siri" followed by what you want. For example: "Hey Siri, what's the weather today?"
Siri Tip
You can also activate Siri by pressing and holding the side button (or Home button on older iPhones) instead of saying "Hey Siri."
Getting Started: Setting Up Amazon Alexa
To use Alexa, you'll need an Amazon Echo device. According to Consumer Reports, the Echo Dot ($49) is a great starting point for beginners.
Plug In Your Echo
Connect the Echo to power. A blue light ring will appear.
Download the Alexa App
Get the free Amazon Alexa app on your phone from the App Store or Google Play.
Follow Setup Instructions
The app will guide you through connecting to your WiFi and Amazon account.
Start Talking
Say "Alexa" followed by your command. For example: "Alexa, play relaxing music."
Helpful Voice Commands for Daily Life
Here are practical commands you can use every day:
Reminders & Alarms
Calls & Messages
Information
Entertainment
Voice Assistants for Health & Safety
Voice assistants can be especially helpful for health management:
Medication Reminders
Set daily reminders for medications. "Alexa, remind me to take my blood pressure pill every day at 9 AM."
Emergency Calls
Make hands-free calls if you've fallen or need help. "Hey Siri, call 911" or "Alexa, call my emergency contact."
Appointment Reminders
Never miss a doctor's appointment. "Hey Google, add a doctor's appointment on Tuesday at 2 PM."
Health Information
Get quick answers about symptoms or medications (but always consult your doctor for medical advice).
Important Safety Note
Voice assistants provide general information but should never replace medical advice from your doctor. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical decisions.
Smart Home Control
Voice assistants can control smart home devices, making your home safer and more convenient:
- Smart lights: "Turn on the living room lights" or "Dim the bedroom lights to 50%"
- Thermostats: "Set the temperature to 72 degrees"
- Smart plugs: Control lamps and appliances by voice
- Door locks: "Lock the front door" (with compatible smart locks)
- Video doorbells: "Show me the front door" (with a screen device)
According to National Institute on Aging, smart home technology can help seniors age safely in place by reducing fall risks and providing easier home control.
Privacy & Security Tips
Voice assistants are generally safe, but here are some privacy tips:
Use the Mute Button
All smart speakers have a mute button that turns off the microphone when you want privacy.
Delete Voice History
You can delete your voice recordings in the device's app settings.
Set Up Voice Purchasing PIN
If using Alexa, set a PIN for purchases so no one can accidentally order items.
Train Voice Recognition
Set up voice profiles so the device only responds to your voice for personal information.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The assistant doesn't understand me
Solution: Speak clearly and at a normal pace. Reduce background noise. Try rephrasing your request more simply.
The assistant activated when I didn't want it to
Solution: This happens occasionally. Just say "Stop" or "Cancel." You can also press the mute button when you want privacy.
The assistant can't hear me from across the room
Solution: Move the device to a central location. Some devices like Echo Dot 5th generation have better microphones for hearing from far away.
I forgot the wake word
Solution: Alexa = "Alexa", Apple = "Hey Siri", Google = "Hey Google" or "OK Google"
Which Voice Assistant is Best for You?
My Recommendation
If you have an iPhone, start with Siri - it's free and already on your phone. If you want a dedicated device, the Amazon Echo Dot is affordable and easy to use. Ask a family member to help you set it up the first time.
Next Steps
Ready to try voice control? Here's how to get started:
- If you have an iPhone, turn on Siri in Settings and try a few commands
- If interested in a smart speaker, consider starting with an Echo Dot
- Practice with simple commands like weather and timers first
- Gradually try more advanced features as you get comfortable
- Ask family members to help with initial setup if needed