How to get older people online using computers

How to help older people to use computers …..

• Over 6.5 million people aged over 55 have never used the internet, possibly because they are scared of it, think they’re too old to learn something new, it’s too expensive or they just don’t see the point
• You can help them to get online by keeping the process simple and taking away their concerns.

Here are some suggestions:

• Computer or tablet? Sometimes a tablet is a better alternative, as it is touchscreen and intuitive to use
• To really enthuse the older person to learn about computers and the internet, find out more about them and what hobbies and interests they have. This can also give you a foundation to base any teaching around, such as:

• • Researching family history
  • Using Skype to contact family and friends overseas
  • Creating an account and sending an email
  • Looking up places that are important to them on Google maps
  • Playing online games

• If they want to use Skype, they’ll need web cam, which is built into tablets most tablets, but not most PCs, where you would need to buy an additional camera
• It helps older users if their computer or tablet if they see the same set-up every time they open their browser.  Rearranging their desktop can help or you can install a simplified system. Organisations such as SimplyUnite can help
• If older people have problems using a mouse, a trackball can help as it avoids the need to hold a mouse still and click at the same time
• There are different types of keyboard available too for those who struggle with the standard one, but you can also improve the existing keyboard with systems such as Filter Keys, which slows down the keyboard to help people who have a tremor and hold the keys down too long

For more helpful information on getting older people online, visit Our technology section

We also have some great videos about how to get older people online 

www.myageingparent.com is a UK-focused information website and social forum aiming to providing everything you need, or want to know or discuss about caring for an older person all in one place. From positive ways to keep them active and healthy, to maintaining their financial and legal needs, through to specific information on care options, local authority funding and age-related health issues. The website draws on a wide range of experts, consultants, lawyers and charities, providing an authoritative and continuously updated source of information. It a member of The Society of Later Life Advisors and is used as a key information resource by many UK local authorities and GP practices. Contact [email protected]

The following two tabs change content below.

• Bio
• Latest Posts

Sally - Silversurfer's Editor

Mother of three grown-up daughters and a proud grandma too, I am the ultimate multi-tasker and am passionate about my role as Silversurfers Website Editor and Social Media Manager. Always on the lookout for all things that will interest and entertain our community. Fueling fun for the young at heart!

Latest posts by Sally - Silversurfer's Editor (see all)

• How to keep your tulips lasting longer - April 25, 2024
• Do you sleep with a snorer? - April 25, 2024
• Holiday hack: How to win a GHA DISCOVERY Titanium status upgrade - April 23, 2024
• 10 Money saving tips for gardeners - April 21, 2024
• Should smacking a child be banned in England and Northern Ireland? - April 17, 2024