Six Roadblocks for Seniors Learning to Use Computers and the Internet
The following are roadblocks that impact people when trying to begin using computers and the internet. Whether looking at this for yourself, or as a guide to assist a friend or family member with computers, we hope this will help overcome some initial common problems.
6. Unusable Hardware
No matter what, using a computer isn’t much fun if you have to wait considerable time just to open an application. Computers are even downright frustrating if unstable and crashing all the time. So first off, if your computer is more than ten years old, you may want to consider just buying a new one. Advances in technology and lower price points make this an appealing option. For others, some additional RAM may be all that is needed. If you are using 128 MB of RAM, you really should consider more. If you are planning to upgrade your RAM or buy a new computer, you should start with at least 512 MB of RAM. The other thing to consider is the speed of the processor. Minimum processor speed requirements for Microsoft Windows XP is 233 Mhz and they recommend at least 300 Mhz. We’d say you need at least a 600 Mhz processor to make things bearable.
5. Staying Updated
Many security and virus issues can be avoided if machines are regularly updated with new anti-virus profiles and Microsoft patches. However, first understanding all these patches then getting over dial-up connections can be a challenge. For example windows XP Service Pack 2 is a very important and valuable improvement to windows XP, however, it will take hours to download over dial-up. In this case, ignorance truly is bliss- turning on automatic downloads for both anti-virus profiles and Microsoft patches is the best way to go.
4. Overcoming Fear
We’ve heard stories of people choosing not to use their computer for weeks after hearing on the news that a new virus out. Equal concerns surround issues of internet scams and identity theft. Fear of these things are good in that they should make users vigilant and prepared. However these fears shouldn’t limit people from using computers and the internet. To overcome fear and feel more secure, first be prepared; keep up with Microsoft patches, use up to date anti-virus software, and use an internet firewall. On the Internet, be vigilant and use best practices; don’t provide passwords and personal information to anyone, don’t open unexpected attachments in email, and don’t download software without first knowing what it contains. The other piece of advice is, ‘You can’t really break it’. If you are protected and following best practices, don’t be afraid to explore- join an online cribbage game, watch a movie preview, and explore new websites.
3. Seeing the Screen
All users have different preferences for viewing their computer screen. However, many seniors we talk with are unaware that the size of images and text on the screen can be enlarged using Windows ‘display properties’. The easiest way to get to the display properties it to right-click on your desktop and select ‘Properties’ from the list. This opens the Display Properties window. Select the settings tab. Here you can move the slider under screen resolution to change the display area. Also under the Appearance tab, you can choose different size fonts for your Windows text. Helpers, don’t assume the person you are guiding can see the screen clearly…be sure to ask!
2. Pop-Up Confusion
Pop-ups, or the advertisements that mysteriously appear on your desktop when you are on the internet, are a frustration for regular users, but can be very confusing to beginners. The best way to deal with pop ups is to first avoid them. Avoid pop-ups with a pop-up blocker. A pop-up blocker was included in Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2, but is also a common feature in browser toolbars from yahoo, msn, and google. Installing a pop-up blocker will help prevent many of these advertisements from showing. However, not all pop-ups are eliminated and these should be ignored and closed by clicking on the X in the right corner.
1. Lack of Personalization
Far too often, we see seniors who still have their browser’s default home page opening to www.microsoft.com and their desktop wallpaper advertising their computer manufacturer. Personalization makes your computer easier to use, but also a lot more fun. If you have multiple users on a computer, first start with making sure windows profiles is turned on. (This can be found under User Accounts in the Control Panel). After you are in your profile begin to experiment – modify your windows theme, adjust your desktop background, remove unused icons, and make your computer your own!
