
Must Have Apps

We all have our favorite apps. There are so many to choose from. It is amazing. I believe there is an application for just about anything. A year ago, I played Candy Crush app like an addict for a sugar craving. I finally reached level 500 and decided time spent with gumdrops and striped bombs was coming to an end. I started looking for apps that would improve my mind, keep me safe, keep me connected with family and friends and assist in shopping the best deals. I use the following apps daily. My app essentials are geared around my lifestyle and age. So as an active Senior Citizen on the move, here are my top picks .
Shop Savvy
Shop Savvy lets you shop smarter. It has a barcode scanner and SKU finder that lets you read the products details.. It checks to see if the product is cheaper elsewhere. It even lets you know when it will go on sale. I give this a top rating.
Google Translate
Google Translate on the App Store
My husband introduced me to this app. I love it. I use it every time I travel overseas .It has 70 languages and translates through text or speech instantly. It sure beats using those old translation books.
Companion
Companion: Never Walk Alone – Your Personal Safety Service and Mobile Blue Light on the App Store
This handy little app keeps me safe. Having an alarm system and a lifeline wasn’t enough for my family. They told me about Companion. I just enter my destination and it tracks my whereabouts along the way. If I drop my phone, or don’t make it to my destination on time, I get a message asking if things are OK. If I don’t respond in 15 seconds, then it alerts my family. Amazing.
Skype
Skype for iPhone on the App Store
What can I say about Skype ? It is my lifeline to family . I can be on my phone, ipad , computer and get a call in real time . As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can connect and the best thing of all , It is free. Think of all the money saved when talking with family overseas and actually seeing them face to face. By far, my favorite app of all !
Flight stats
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/flightstats/id572700574?mt=8
If you don’t travel by air, you probably won’t be interested in this app. With my lifestyle, it is essential. You just type in your flight and it tracks through the sky. Delays, change of course, gate and flight numbers all included. I just love when I pick up family from the airport and as the flight approaches , I can be at the gate when they arrive, not wondering if they have landed.
Google maps
Google Maps app overview – Maps for mobile Help
So you need to get to a new doctor or there is a restaurant you want to try. Just type in the address of destination and it will show : phone number, location, their website and time and alternate routes to your destination. All in one little app.
Mint
Mint: Money Manager, Bill Pay, Credit Score, Budgeting & Investing
Mint is the perfect budget management app for anyone. My bank account is linked to the app and I can instantly see where my money is being spent. It evens charts my spending habits over several months and suggest where to close the loopholes in spending.
Footprints 
http://www.footprints.net/favicon.ico
I added Footprints because as a grandparent I see the value of this app. It lets parents keep track of their children’s whereabouts. It is in real time and does it privately.. You can even set up Geofences and are notified if these fences have been crossed. Much needed for any parents.
Pinterest – Android Apps on Google Play
I gave up Candy Crush, and found a new love. Pinterest.
This app is filled with ideas, projects, creative ideas, quotes, inspirations.You create bulletin boards and “pin” your ideas to your boards. You can research and enjoy later. You will never run out of ideas for DIY and recipes you never knew existed you will be trying. Beware, Pinterest is as addicting as Candy Crush
Kindle
Kindle – Read Books, eBooks, Magazines, Newspapers & Textbooks on the App Store
Being a member of Amazon Prime, this app is simply a full library that goes with you everywhere. You have access to books. Simply download them to your ipad, phone, computer, you don’t need Wi-Fi to read . On long flights, you can put on your Bose noise blockers and settle down to read until you snooze off. You can share across your family’s devices. My favorite is being a member of Kindle Unlimited. I pay a nominal fee and have access to 10 books at any given time to read free. When you finish reading, you simply return it back to the lending library and download another.