Seniors and Technology

In just the past ten years, there’s been a computer technology revolution that is fundamentally changing the way Americans communicate, get information, and even shop for everything from books to groceries. Everybody knows about the Internet and the “worldwide web,” but not everyone actually knows how to use and take advantage of these marvelous new tools.

Older adults, who didn’t grow up with e-mail and “web-surfing,” are especially likely to feel left behind by this brave new world of technology. That’s unfortunate because, in many ways, the recent advances in computer software and other technology are ideally suited to the needs and interests of seniors. Consider these examples:

E-mail is a fast and relatively inexpensive way to communicate with family members and friends all over the world. It doesn’t require paper, stamps or envelopes, and is much cheaper than the telephone.

Increasingly, business transactions from paying bills to banking can be done safely from the comfort of home via the Internet. Conducting business “on-line” is a particular advantage for seniors with limited mobility (e.g., those using wheelchairs or who are frail), enabling them to continue to control and manage their finances and other transactions with relatively little effort, and without needing anyone’s help.

On-line shopping is proving increasingly popular with Americans of all ages, and is particularly beneficial for older people who have trouble getting out to shop the old-fashioned way. No worries about the weather, or needing assistance to travel to the mall. Now it’s possible to shop for just about anything on-line, safely and comfortably.

Continuing education via the Internet is a great way for older adults to enhance learning and expand their intellectual horizons. Many colleges and universities across the United States and internationally now offer diverse and challenging classes that can be “attended” on-line.

The Internet is allowing people with similar interests to reach out and find each other on-line, often through “chat rooms” set up for just this purpose. Individuals of all ages with similar hobbies or interests can meet on-line, share information and mutual concerns, and form friendships. For older people who feel socially isolated, the Internet can open up a whole new arena for self-expression and friendship.

Overcoming Technophobia: Just Begin

Like any new technology, computers and the Internet will seem strange and confusing to those who haven’t used them before. The good news is that this advanced technology is becoming increasingly “user-friendly” day by day, and there are also more places where seniors can learn to use computers.

If you or an older loved one is reluctant to try using this “new-fangled” technology, try sitting with someone who is already comfortable and knowledgeable about it while they conduct business or respond to e-mail via the Internet. Such over-the-shoulder sessions will not only allow viewers to see what’s possible (a great motivator to learn), but they also can ask questions and begin the process of learning how to use the computer themselves.

Taking a class in computer use is a great idea, and there are many places that offer such courses specifically for seniors. Quite often, these are free, and also include advice about what kind of hardware and software would be most appropriate for an individual’s needs and budget. Check out these possibilities:

Local senior and community centers increasingly are offering computer courses. Not only are these classes a great way to learn, but they also provide opportunities to meet new friends with similar interests.

Your public library is likely to offer classes in computer use as well as provide computers with on-line access for use by patrons. These days, it is a rare library that doesn’t have Internet capability and computer stations available for anyone to use.

The worldwide web might be the best place to locate computer classes for older people. Check out the website, SeniorNet.org, for information about on-line computer classes as well as educational materials and advice.

For seniors who aren’t mobile, consultants are available to come to the home to help set up hardware and software as well as tutor on computer use. To identify consultants, try your local college or university, or ask for a referral from a local computer dealer.

Remember…

It may take some time and patience to introduce new computer technology to older people for whom it’s a new challenge. Keep in mind, however, the extraordinary benefits available to those who can learn to take advantage of these new opportunities for learning, socializing, and maintaining independence. This will help new users get past the frustrations involved in learning some new tricks. The effort will be well worth it!