Doreen's story

With a little bit of help, it really is never too late to try out new technology.

At nearly 95 years old and despite her extensive age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Doreen continues to live independently in her second-floor flat in London.

Doreen is one of hundreds who benefitted from our free Amazon Echo smart speaker scheme, launched last year. Today she embraces her new speaker and marvels at the practical help and entertainment it has unlocked.

A new way to stay connected

“Now I have ‘you know who’… I don’t call it by her name as she comes on!” Doreen laughs. “I can listen to so many more stations, so many programmes, and I can replace the reading, which I can’t do anymore, with listening to audiobooks. I love it.”

Although she has been a lifelong radio listener, Alexa offers more variety. “My radio only has four stations on it. Now I have access to so much more.”

Finding independence through audio

Since her husband passed away, and without family living locally, being able to manage independently has been particularly important.

For Doreen, her new Alexa has been key to maintaining her independence. Beyond entertainment, she also uses the device to check the time and date, set reminders for medical appointments, and even get cooking instructions.

BWBF’s life-changing service

Losing the ability to watch TV and read books was a huge adjustment for Doreen, but BWBF’s support has opened new opportunities for her. “I think the device is brilliant. I’m looking forward to getting better at using it and finding more entertainment.”

For Doreen, the Alexa device has brought convenience, entertainment, and a renewed sense of independence. “I often think, what would my grandmother make of it—me talking to a tennis ball on the shelf,” she laughs. “It’s amazing!”