by Silva Payne

Created on: September 23, 2009

Older people are often nervous about computer technology. There are many reasons for this, including the fear of doing something new for the first time and looking foolish. As time and tide wait for no man, so the march of technology will not stop or even slow down just because the population is aging. Older people should at least try to learn the basics of computing, in order to take full advantage of the benefits a digital age has to offer.

The saying "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" is simply a myth. If an individual keeps their mind active in regular ways throughout their lives, there is no reason why learning cannot take place well into their retirement. Doctors believe that an active mind can reduce the likelihood of depression and other mental disorders in later life. Learning the basics of how to use a computer is just like operating a microwave or dishwasher for the first time. The results you get relate directly to the commands you give, and in some ways, computers are far more reliable than humans at following instructions!

Many household tasks that were once done manually, such as paying utility bills, can now be done via the computer and the Internet. This can be invaluable for the elderly person who has mobility difficulties and cannot always leave their home unaided. The more you can do for yourself, the greater your independence and sense of self-worth remains. Mastering the art of Internet banking, and learning about the security issues surrounding it are sensible reasons to use a computer at any age.

Where families once generally lived within a small radius of the parental home, these days many families are spread out across countries, if not continents. Being able to use a communication tool such as Skype, or a web cam and emails, will help you to keep in touch with your family wherever they are. You can watch your grandchildren (or even great grandchildren) grow and talk to them while seeing them, almost as if you were in the same room together. The financial benefits to this type of communication over traditional phone calls are great; generally the connection fee for the Internet access is all you pay, so there is no need to hang up after a few minutes, or save your calls for Christmas and birthdays.

You do not need to understand the minute workings of the insides of a computer in order to learn how to use one. This misconception is often something that puts older people off trying to learn even the basics of computing. You also do not need to learn every function that your computer is capable of performing. The beauty of home computing is that you can learn in small stages, and only focus on the applications and software that is relevant to you. If you enjoy taking photographs, you may find a short course in how to use Photoshop a good investment. If you want to learn how to surf the web and send emails, you local community college or library may offer short courses at reduced rates for senior citizens. Friends and family can be a great source of help when you know you can do something but can't quite remember which icon or button to press.

Computers have opened up a wide range of inclusive activities to older people. Learning the basics of how to use a computer is a truly money saving and beneficial activity that everyone should consider, no matter what their physical age.

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