Classes creating tech-savvy seniors
Courtesy of Medina Gazette
Kaitlin Bushinski
MEDINA — A new class at Emeritus at Medina Retirement and Assisted Living Community is teaching residents how to use computers to stay in touch with family and friends.
A company called YANTOTC (You Are Never Too Old Technology Co.) has donated a computer system and tutorial software designed for seniors to Emeritus at Medina and its sister center, Emeritus at Camelot Place.
Owner and founder of YANTOTC Bruce Brockman will teach computer and technology classes using his software at each Emeritus campus throughout January.
Brockman said he was inspired to develop computer tutorials for seniors after teaching his own parents, who were in their 80s at the time, how to use computers.
Along with his wife, Lenore, Brockman created more than 500 videos and a large-print training manual designed to teach seniors how to use programs like Skype, a freeWeb-based video and phone conferencing program, to keep in touch with friends and family.
“There are a lot of seniors who could use knowledge of that,” Brockman said.
His software also teaches seniors how to use e-mail, surf theWeb and use programs such as KeePass, which allows users to store one password for all their online accounts.
Brockman said the computer he set up at Emeritus is part of a hardware package he offers seniors.
His computer system is designed for those with hearing and visual disabilities.
Brockman said the 19-inch monitor is easier on seniors’ eyes than a widescreen monitor, the keyboard features large-print keys and the mouse is a “marble mouse” that is easier to use for those with carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis.
The computer also comes equipped with aWeb camera, headphones and a microphone.
The classes at the Emeritus facilities are the trial run for the computer system and tutorial program, Brockman said.
On Monday, the first class drew a crowd of residents interested in becoming more tech-savvy, he said. “(The goal) is to get seniors involved,” Brockman said.
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