Introducing computers and the Internet to older users: findings from the Care OnLine project

Abstract

This paper reports the findings from a twoyear pilot project called Care OnLine (COL). The COL project has introduced computers and the Internet into the homes of 50 elderly and vulnerable volunteers and provided shared Internet access at five shared schemes housing older people across the Market Harbrorough district of Leicestershire. A specific web portal was designed that was geared towards older and vulnerable people and provided information about the different services available to them, as well as links to a variety of websites. All the volunteers were provided with training in using computers and the Internet, and were interviewed regarding their experiences. Findings related to their attitudes towards, and experiences of, computers and the Internet are reported. The impact of having access to computers and the Internet on the volunteers' lives and some lessons learnt from providing such a scheme are also discussed.

Technology and Aging Project: Training Outcomes and Efficacy from a Randomized Field Trial

“…Impaired vision, problems with manual dexterity and mobility, changes in memory and cognition, and activities of daily living (ADL) limitations can pose serious challenges (Czaja and Lee 2003;Fox 2004;Gilleard et al 2007;Saunders 2004). Characteristics of existing technology such as complex screens and small print, the standard computer keyboard format, usability issues with system designs, computer jargon, and the reality that some technologies simply do not work well or easily can also be problematic for older users (Melenhorst et al 2001;Osman et al 2005). According to Saunders (2004), many older adults fear that computers will be quickly outdated.…”

“…It is important for trainers to remember that teaching an older person requires extra time and effort (vanBerlo and vanValen 1998). Motivation to learn can also be enhanced by exploring with the older adults what they would like to do with the computer and adjusting the training to meet their interests (Osman et al 2005). According to Czaja et al (2006), it is important to use technology that allows older adults to experience success so that they build up confidence in their abilities.…”

“…According to Irizarry et al (2002), an appropriate class size, an informal atmosphere in which students have the freedom to ask questions, the skill of the teacher, and the availability of helpers are important factors in teaching older adults how to use ICTs. Equally important are teacher enthusiasm and a caring attitude (Osman et al 2005). It is important for trainers to remember that teaching an older person requires extra time and effort (vanBerlo and vanValen 1998).…”

“…These include financial barriers and the simple absence of training opportunities. Available training is often not provided in settings with sufficient numbers of sensitive, caring trainers needed to support the learning process for older adults (Czaja et al 2006;Eastman and Iyer 2004;Irizarry et al 2002;Osman et al 2005;Xie 2007). According to Irizarry et al (2002), an appropriate class size, an informal atmosphere in which students have the freedom to ask questions, the skill of the teacher, and the availability of helpers are important factors in teaching older adults how to use ICTs.…”

“…According to Czaja et al (2006), it is important to use technology that allows older adults to experience success so that they build up confidence in their abilities. There is also a need to ensure that older adults are trained as individuals rather than as a group, and if group training does take place, then it is imperative that each person has access to a computer (Osman et al 2005).…”