Computer Resources for Older People?

Your_Mom asks: "My mother has recently become involved in computing. She has familiarized herself with many of the basics like: going to certain web sites, typing out simple Word documents, and so forth. However, she has recently expressed interest in learning more. Where can I find resources for older computer users, teaching simple things like word processing, spreadsheets, searching the web, etc.?"

Comments

It may seem cold but...

[no longer myself]

Ignore her is the best option. Don't offer her any advice if you can help it. Don't offer to help her in any way. This may seem difficult, because you do love your mother. (I know, I love mine too.)

Believe it or not, unless you are specially trained in training people (and even then it's "iffy"), you can actually make it worse for them.

Many times people (and more frequently older people) equate quality, value, and cost. and since you (the good child that you are) are only going to provide assistance non-gratis, your help will be considered the same value as your commensuration.

The person (parent) eventually figures this out on their own and finds someone else to help them. Now they've come to their own (cold) conclusion that you just aren't up to the task. Thanks, Mom!

I'm all for free (libre) software and information, but sometimes people have to pay good money before they learn anything. To quote an episode of Matlock: "I charge my clients a lot of money so they'll do what I tell them."

I'm not suggesting you charge your Mother. I'm suggesting you find someone who will.

Then stay out of it. Make up some excuse about how your employer made you sign a non-compete contract that prohibits you from showing even relatives how to use a computer. Whatever it takes!

Ultimately, your mother will find what she needs on her own, and you'll gain valuable insite into what it's like to "let go" too. ;.)