Helping seniors make the most of technology

FINISHING: The Gisborne branch of SeniorNet will discuss a motion to wind up the organisation at a special meeting on Friday. Long-time volunteers Lesley Holmes and John Hall (foreground), with Yvonne Moorcroft and Jill Hudson (at rear) are pictured at the relaunch of the organisation at the Cosmopolitan Club last year, but numbers of both students and volunteers have fallen considerably. File picture

Courses to help older people get computer-savvy will begin in Gisborne next week.

SeniorNet Gisborne held an open day recently to give people the opportunity to talk to tutors about upcoming courses.

The first eight-week term will begin on Wednesday (February 7), says SeniorNet secretary Hans Kwak.

The open day was also an opportunity for people interested in joining the SeniorNet volunteer team to find out what is involved.

Mr Kwak says SeniorNet Gisborne relies on volunteers, and is always looking for new recruits.

“Volunteers with the skills and temperament to teach older people would start as assistant tutors.

“We aim for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere so everyone is comfortable.

“We all learn from fellow tutors and students, so tutoring can be enjoyable and enlightening.

“We are very grateful to our supporters, Gisborne Cosmopolitan Club for helping us to help others with computer skills.”

Eight-week courses include Getting Started, Word Processing Level 1 and 2, simple Excel Spreadsheets, Publishing, Internet and Email.

Shorter courses can be available on use of iPads, tablets and smartphones, depending on tutor availability.

There may also be workshops on topics such as creating business cards or on photo restoration.

SeniorNet Gisborne lessons range from single individual sessions to the eight-week courses, with fees varying according to subject.

A SeniorNet annual fee of $30 also entitles members to discounts with sponsors who support the national group.

SeniorNet has operated in New Zealand for more than 25 years as a community training network that supports and motivates people aged 50 and over to enjoy and use technology in their everyday lives.

Volunteer tutors at 74 locations around the country help older people learn how to use technology and, with a 2017 membership of approximately 16,000 people — and 24,444 class and workshop enrolments in 2016 — SeniorNet is the largest technology trainer for seniors in the country.