Seniors’ Guide for Netflix : How to use it and top releases for 2024

Do you have the Netflix button on your remote control but need help figuring out what to do? We are here to offer a helping hand. 

New research from Nielsen suggests that the older you are, the more likely you are to watch Netflix originals. This may seem surprising, but it is the older generation, mainly those aged 50 and up, spend a greater share of their time on Netflix watching originals than the platform’s younger viewers do.

According to Age UK, “Being digitally included can help older people stay connected with family and friends, and find activities and support to participate, helping them remain socially connected with people who have similar interests and outlook in life.”

Staying connected through social media, joining video calls, watching Netflix and being part of an online community are great ways to help the older generation stay connected with the outside world, particularly where mobility is reduced. 

Predictions are that the number of people over 50 experiencing loneliness will reach 2m by 2025/26 (https://abilitynet.org.uk/), so to help, we have put together a guide to setting up and navigating Netflix so you can enjoy popular programmes such as The Crown, The King’s Speech, Grace & Frankie, Our Planet, and so much more. With some incredible series and movies now available on Netflix, it would be a shame to miss out because you do not know how to use them. 

How to set up a Netflix Account

When you set up an account, you are charged once a month on the date you sign up. There are no commitments or contracts; simply cancel or change your plan at any time. 

Here are Netflix’s steps to setting up an account: 

To sign up on a computer/phone or iPad: 

  • Visit netflix.com/signup.
  • Choose the plan that’s right for you. You can downgrade or upgrade at any time.
  • Create an account by entering your email address and creating a password.
  • Enter a payment method.
  • That’s it. Stream on!

To sign up on your smart TV or streaming media player:

  • Open the Netflix app.
  • On most smart TVs and streaming media players, you will need to start by providing your email address or phone number.
  • Once provided, you will receive an email or SMS text message with an activation link to continue the signup flow.
  • Choose the plan that’s right for you. You can downgrade or upgrade at anytime
  • Create an account by entering your email address and creating a password.
  • Enter a payment method.
  • That’s it. Stream on!

It is as simple as that. It is also reasonably priced, with the standard package starting at just £4.99 monthly. 

How to use Netflix: 

Once you create your account, it’s time to look around. 

When you sign in, you will see a list of shows, movies and documentaries. These will be categorised. Once you start using the platform, it will learn the type of programs you like and recommend similar shows it thinks you will enjoy. You will see this at the top. It will also show you what is most popular and trending. You can also use the search function to find something specific. 

When you find something you would like to watch, click on the image and press play. It is as straightforward as that. You can fast-forward, pause and rewind just like you would a DVD. 

Top releases on Netflix for 2024

With new shows and movies being released every month, here are some top releases that you will not want to miss out on this year: 

  • The Brothers Sun
  • Bridgerton season 3 (Make sure you watch seasons 1 & 2 first)
  • Mamma Mia!
  • Griselda
  • Fool Me Once

Did you know that Netflix also has various accessibility features for those who need it? 

Accessibility features include: 

  • Assistive listening system
  • Audio descriptions
  • Brightness controls
  • Font size controls
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Playback speed controls
  • Screen readers
  • Subtitles & closed captions
  • Voice commands

We hope this article has helped to get you set up on Netflix to enjoy wonderful series and films. This will help you to participate in conversations with your friends and family about the best series and movies and remain involved with the latest trends. 

If you enjoyed this article, why not check out our article on the best websites and apps for seniors. 

Now that you have mastered Netflix, we hope you have the confidence to use technology more in your everyday life to help combat loneliness, particularly for those who are less mobile. 

At Red Button, we are passionate about helping to break down barriers of loneliness for the elderly. That is why all our telecare packages use simple, easy-to-use technology so you can receive help and support at the click of a button. You never have to worry that you, or your loved one, is alone at times of need. Someone is always on hand, 24 hours a day, with our telecare personal alarm systems. 

For more information on our telecare packages, get in touch.

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