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Computers: Getting Online - Using the Internet
Fact sheet # 4 examines some of the benefits as well
as the challenges related to computers and older adults.
 Older adults are the fastest growing group of computer buyers and internet
users. In 1999, 25 percent of households headed by a person 55-64 years
old used the internet from home. In the 65 and over age group, 10 percent
did. Internet use in the 65 and over age group is growing faster than
in all other age groups.
Think about it
Some research shows that age is not an important predictor of owning a computer. An interest in technology among other factors is more important in determining who owns a computer. |
A computer can enrich your life in many ways. Just as you might not know exactly how your car works to drive it, so too, you don't have to understand the computer to send electronic mail (e-mail) to friends and family, shop online, play games, make greeting cards, read book and film reviews, look into your family's genealogy or find valuable health information on the internet.
Some Useful Definitions
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Myth: Older adults are resistant and react negatively to
technological change.
Mythbuster: Some research shows that older adults' direct
experience with computers and technology can have a positive influence
on their overall outlook and mental health.
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The internet is a very large computer network through which
individual computers are connected to internet service providers
(ISP) so they can share information. The internet is open
to anyone with access to a computer that is connected to an ISP.
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Information on the internet is presented on web pages that contain images, text and sometimes sound. By clicking on the ‘links'
on a web page, you can visit other pages. The total of all web
pages makes up the World Wide Web or www
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Modems are devices that are installed in your computer or outside
of it and allow your computer to communicate with other computers. This
enables you to send a message through your computer via electronic mail
(e-mail) over your telephone line, cable or satellite to another
computer or the internet.
Training and Access
Computers are available for public use at any of the Community Access
Program (CAP) sites across Canada and are located in various public
facilities, including libraries, seniors' centres, schools and recreation
centres. The volunteers who donate their time at the CAP sites
provide training, access to the internet and information on distance education.
The training topics range from getting connected to the Web and using
e-mail effectively to online banking, shopping and security issues. For
more information, call toll free: 1-800-575-9200 or for b
service: 1-800-465-7735. You can also visit the CAP web site: http://cap.ic.gc.ca
Across Canada, the Student Connection Program provides Seniors'
Internet Training for a low fee. Four training modules include basic
computer training as well as internet and electronic commerce education.
For more information, visit their web site: http://www.studentconnections.ca or call toll free: 1-888-807-7777 to obtain the telephone number
of the office nearest you.
Do it yourself
Seek out affordable and reputable training programs. Check out
your local library for lists of courses or call your community education
department. Some universities, community colleges and school boards
have Continuing Education departments that may offer training. Your
provincial or territorial seniors' organizations or government agencies
may also have information on computer training. Many reasonably
priced programs are staffed by volunteers and/or subsidized by public
funding. In some areas, training in your home is available. Once
you are online, there are moderately priced computer and internet
training courses available on the internet, as well as free resources.
You may find listings of such material by conducting a search on
the internet using specific terms like 'computer training resources'.
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Overcoming Barriers…
- For many older adults, the cost of new computer equipment is beyond
their budget. However, previously owned systems are available at reasonable
costs. Ask at a local Community Access Program (CAP) site for
suggestions (see Training and Access
above).
- One of the best ways to learn how to use a computer is to talk to
someone you know who already uses a computer, perhaps a neighbour, friend,
grandchild or other relative. Or ask people at your local seniors' centre
for advice.
- Some older adults may feel that computers are too complicated or difficult
to understand but with a little training and persistence, you might
be surprised at how quickly you can learn, not to mention how much fun
you might end up having. Learning how to use a computer can be a great
way to feel connected to the Information Age!
Sources:
Canada Online – Community Access Program (CAP). Connecting Canadians.
Retrieved May 9, 2001 from http://connect.gc.ca/
Meeks, C.B., and A.L. Sweaney. Consumers' Willingness to Innovate:
Ownership of Microwaves, Computers and Entertainment Products. In
Carol B. Meeks. Technological Change and the Elderly. Advancing the
Consumer Interest, Vol. 6, No. 1, Spring 1994.
Personal communication with John Ryan, CAP Site Volunteer, April/May
2001.
Untangle the Web: Introducing Canadian Business to the Power of the
Internet. Student Connection Program Information Kit, Industry Canada,
2001.
White, Jo and Ann Weatherall. A Grounded Theory Analysis of Older
Adults and Information Technology. Educational Gerontology, 26: 371-386,
2000.
Techno Terms
- Computer Virus
- A programming code that is transmitted to your computer from an infected
e-mail attachment, downloaded from an infected web site or present on
a diskette. Viruses can cause operating problems with your computer
and are often designed to automatically spread to other computer users.
You can protect your computer from a virus by purchasing virus detection
software.
- Firewall
- A security feature installed on some but not all computers that protects
your information by preventing access to it from other computers when
you are connected to the internet. Many networks have built-in firewalls
to ensure privacy. If you plan to use the internet regularly from your
home, check into whether you already have this feature on your computer
or must install firewall software.
- Hacker
- A term used by some to mean 'a clever programmer' and by others, to
mean ‘someone who tries to break into computer systems'.
- Internet Service Provider (ISP)
- A company that provides individuals and other companies access to
the internet and other related services.
- Online
- The condition of being connected to a computer or a telecommunications
system. The term is frequently used to describe someone who is currently
connected to the internet.
- World Wide Web
- All the resources and users on the internet that are using the Hypertext
Transfer Protocol (HTTP). The World Wide Web is the universe of
network-accessible information, an embodiment of human knowledge.
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