25 Simple Alexa Commands Every Senior Should Know

Many older adults love Alexa once they realize how easy it is to talk to her. You don’t have to press buttons, search menus, or even touch your phone.

You just ask.

If you’re helping a parent or grandparent learn Alexa, start small. These 25 voice commands cover everything they’ll need — from checking the weather to calling family or controlling the lights.

1. Getting Started

Every command begins with the wake word “Alexa” followed by what you want her to do.
For example:

“Alexa, what time is it?”

If she doesn’t respond, make sure she’s plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.
You’ll see the blue light ring when she’s listening.

2. Daily Life Commands

These simple commands make Alexa a friendly companion throughout the day.

1. “Alexa, what’s the time?”
   Always accurate — no need to find your phone or glasses.
2. “Alexa, what’s the weather today?”
   Great for planning walks or knowing when to carry an umbrella.
3. “Alexa, set an alarm for 7 a.m.”
   Perfect for medication, wake-ups, or appointments.
4. “Alexa, set a timer for 15 minutes.”
   Helpful for cooking or short reminders.
5. “Alexa, remind me to take my pills at 9 a.m.”
   You’ll hear a voice reminder at the set time.

 

3. Health and Safety Commands

Alexa can be part of a simple safety system at home.

1. “Alexa, call [name].”
   Instantly calls your saved contact through Wi-Fi.
2. “Alexa, I need help.”
   If you’ve created an emergency routine (see Article 5), Alexa will alert your contact.
3. “Alexa, announce ‘I need assistance.’”
   Sends a message to all Echo devices in the house.
4. “Alexa, drop in on [contact name].”
   Opens a live audio call with a trusted contact — no need to press anything.

 

4. Comfort and Convenience

Alexa makes daily tasks smoother for seniors who prefer voice control.

1. “Alexa, turn on the lights.”
   Works if smart bulbs or plugs are connected.
2. “Alexa, what’s the temperature in the room?”
   (Available on newer Echo devices with sensors.)
3. “Alexa, play soft music.”
   Great for relaxation or background sound.
4. “Alexa, stop.”
   The most important command — stops music, alarms, or any sound instantly.
5. “Alexa, volume 5.”
   Adjusts sound from 0 (mute) to 10 (maximum).

 

5. Entertainment and Memory Help

Keep the mind active with simple voice-based entertainment.

1. “Alexa, play the news.”
   Delivers daily updates from trusted radio sources.
2. “Alexa, tell me a joke.”
   Fun and friendly — ideal for a quick smile.
3. “Alexa, play 70s gospel music.”
   Alexa can find almost any genre or artist.
4. “Alexa, read my audiobook.”
   Works with Audible for story lovers.
5. “Alexa, what’s on my calendar today?”
   Shows daily appointments or birthdays.
6. “Alexa, what’s the date?”
   A small but handy reminder for those who forget the day.

 

6. Social and Family Use

Stay connected without lifting a finger.

1. “Alexa, call my daughter.”
   Simple, direct, and private.
2. “Alexa, send a message to [contact name].”
   Sends a short voice or text message through the Alexa app.
3. “Alexa, make a video call to [contact].”
   Works on Echo Show devices with screens.
4. “Alexa, show my photos.”
   Displays pictures if your Amazon Photos account is linked.
5. “Alexa, good night.”
   Turns off lights, lowers music, and says “Good night” back.

 

Tips for Seniors Using Alexa

• Speak naturally. You don’t need to shout — normal tone works best.
• Use short commands. Fewer words mean faster response.
• Repeat if needed. Say, “Alexa, repeat that,” to hear it again.
• Place the device nearby. About 2–3 feet away from where you sit or sleep.
• Label it. A small note card saying “Say: Alexa, what’s the time?” helps new users remember.

 

For Caregivers

If you’re helping a senior get started, pre-set:

• Reminders for medication, doctor visits, and calls.
• Favorite music playlists or radio stations.
• Emergency routines.

Then teach 3–5 commands at a time, not all at once.
Confidence grows faster with repetition.

 

Conclusion

Alexa isn’t just a smart speaker — she’s a simple voice companion.
For seniors, these 25 commands can reduce isolation, improve safety, and make life easier.

Once your parent learns these, they’ll use Alexa daily — not as a gadget, but as part of their routine.

Technology doesn’t have to be complicated.
It just needs to listen, understand, and respond.

Next article: How to Set Up Daily Medication Reminders with Alexa or Google Assistant