Never too late to learn computers

By Sharon Eliott

We have a great opportunity for everyone this summer, and even more to offer for seniors at the Bridgetown Computer Access Site.

The CAP Site is free of charge and open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until noon, and again in the afternoon from 1:15 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.

This summer we are offering a terrific opportunity for seniors to learn basic computer skills. If you have no experience, very little computer experience, or feel a little nervous and intimidated by your computer; or even the thought of using one, we have a course for you.

The Cap Site is offering a four week Novice Computer Course this summer. The classes will begin on Tuesday, August 7 and run each Tuesday morning from 10 a.m. until noon. And, here is the best part - they are free.

This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone wishing to go on and take our the Beginners Computer Course at the site this Fall, but wish to have a little hands on experience first.

Our computer access site has been home to the Surfing Seniors Program since September 2000.

We have had hundreds of seniors take our classes and we’ve all had a lot fun. Our courses are geared for seniors, especially our Beginner Course which takes lessons at a slow pace and provides lots of time for practice.

But, in speaking with many folks in the community, we know that we still have lots of seniors who would like to learn, but have no experience and are still hesitant.

So if this description fits you, now is your chance. Our free summer Novice Computer Course is for you. This course will provide you with the basic skills and the support you need to see how much fun you can have using a computer.

With the advances of our now very techno savvy world, there seem to be fewer opportunities to just start out at the beginning, especially with computers. And, human nature being what it is, the further removed we feel from something, the more intimidating it begins to look, and the less likely we are to jumping in and learning about it.

For most seniors, computers are a relatively new addition to their lives.

Computers didn’t start to become a main stream household item until the later part of the 90’s. Before that, they may have been a limited or specific function in the workplace, but their functions have taken on a huge growth in the last number of years.

For seniors who have never had any past experience with computers, learning how to use one now can seem very daunting. However, we want to show you that this is not the case. Computers are becoming more and more user friendly and the wonderful opportunities they offer seem to have no limits, especially for seniors.

Some of my favorite moments at the site have been teaching seniors how to use email systems. Many have been so excited because they can now exchange emails with their grandchildren. The possibilities offer such exciting opportunities and rewarding independence for seniors.

If you or someone you know would like to join our free summer course it is as easy as picking up the phone and calling right now. Space for this course is limited, so don’t wait and call today.

If you would like more information, or would like to registered for the summer course, please call Sharon Elliott at 665-4481. Our Cap Site is located at 26 Bay Road in Bridgetown and is open to the public from Monday to Friday.

To book a free appointment for one on one computer assistance, please call the site at 665-4231. We look forward to hearing from you.

(SHARON ELLIOTT is Seniors' Safety coordinator in Annapolis County.)