The Mature Worker and the Computer – Are You Ever Too Old to Start Using One?

My father is without question one of the smartest people I know. Now in his late 80′s, he’s still very engaged in life, actively pursuing his passions and hobbies, reading, gardening, volunteering. His days are full and very productive. He never stops learning.

That said, a few years ago he made the decision not to learn about or use computers. He felt he’d made it to his eighties without using a computer, and felt no need to start. I can’t disagree with his decision: he manages perfectly well by phoning people, and by writing long, beautifully-written personal letters. I love getting them.

But lately, his lack of connection to the Web has become a minor problem for me. He has a wealth of knowledge about the business world and I frequently seek his advice on business matters. Unfortunately, my only choices for contacting him are phone or snail mail. So he’s never seen my website, seen my family photos on Facebook, or read any articles I’ve posted online. I can’t e-mail him business documents for his advice, and since nowadays business moves so fast, I can’t wait the week it would take for him to receive documents in the mail, then phone me with his thoughts.

So it raises the question: Is there such a thing as “too old” to start using a computer? In the end, of course, it’s a matter of personal choice. And if someone is perfectly happy without a computer, I don’t see why they should change, especially if they’re well into their eighties and nineties.

However, if a person is thinking about re-entering the workforce, they would do well to seriously consider learning some basic computer skills, not matter what line of work they’re going into. Today even the most basic entry-level jobs usually involve at least a small amount of computer savvy, even if it’s just operating a computerized cash register. Also, many older people would find enjoyment and companionship in the ability to stay in touch with family and friends that the Internet, Facebook, and e-mail provide.

What usually holds people back is that they’re intimidated. They’re convinced that computers are very complicated and difficult to learn, and that only geniuses, rocket scientists and teenagers are smart enough to learn how to operate them. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. This is why you now see four and five-year-olds who are computer savvy. You’d swear they were born with a mouse in their little hands.

If you’re just starting out, and want to put a toe into the cold stream of technology, where do you start?

1. The easiest way is to visit a friend or family member and have them show you. Start each session with a specific goal: “Could you show me how to send an e-mail?” or “Show me how to get on the Internet and look up a website.” You may be shocked at how easy it is.

2. There are all kinds of great computer books out there – in my opinion, the simpler, the better when you’re getting started. And don’t worry – just because the book may have the word “dummy” in the title, it doesn’t mean you’re a dummy. (I say this because recently a friend of mine in her late fifties needed to learn some basic computer for a new job, and was highly offended when I suggested one of these books. I had to explain it wasn’t an insult – that intelligent people used them all the time!)

3. There are various types of computer courses you can take. Some are classroom- based, where you learn with a group. Personally, I prefer the courses you do either at home or in a classroom, with special programs and tapes, at your own speed, while a teacher stands by in person or on the phone in case you have a question. I never enjoyed the experience of learning computer as a class. There’s nothing worse than sitting there twiddling your thumbs while the teacher takes ten minutes to explain the idea of “mouse” to someone, or at the other extreme, feeling stupid and embarrassed as your whole class sits and glares at you because you’re the only one who can’t catch on to how to set up a margin.

4. If you get a computer for your home, it’s crucial to find a computer nerd of your own, whether a friend, child, grandchild, or the young boy next door. You need someone you can call to say, “Why won’t my computer come on?” or “What does ‘fatal error’ mean?” Without them, your computer will spend more time in the shop than your car. With them, you’ll find most problems have easy solutions.

So jump in, get started. You’ll be glad you did.

The Mature Worker and the Computer – Are You Ever Too Old to Start Using One?

Lorraine E. Wright
http://21stcenturyresumes.ca

21st Century Resumes designs technology-friendly, attention-grabbing resumes and cover letters, customized uniquely for each job seeker, to present them at their very best in today’s crowded and competitive job market.

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