Seniors are learning to love technology with the help of dedicated volunteers in the southeast.
Carrie and Chris Ewin have spent years helping seniors learn to use computers at local community centres. “It’s so rewarding when students first learn to use Skype or Facebook,” Carrie said.
Chris and Carrie also volunteer their skills at the Chelsea PC Support Group at Longbeach Place. They join fellow facilitators Rojer Liberman, Alex Taylor, Leslie Trevena and Cheryl Ewin to provide seniors with engaging presentations on computer topics and opportunities to have their computer problems solved.
“The group introduces great ways to use your computer but we also have lots of games, prizes and nibblies,” Carrie said. Chris added: “We’re very proud that our monthly meetings are free.”
The group teamed up with the Adult Community and Further Education Board and several local community centres to create the Seniors IT program in 2014. “Seniors IT is a hub of learning, support and resources for seniors to further their technology journey,” said Carrie.
Carrie was recognised for her efforts when she received the Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award as part of the 2015 Premier’s Volunteer Champions Awards. Chris was named runner-up in the Outstanding Practitioner Award in the Victorian Government’s Learn Local Awards the same year.
Most recently, Carrie and Chris have put their years of experience together to launch a series of books with No Starch Press. Their first book is Facebook for Seniors: Connect with Friends and Family in 12 Easy Lessons, to be followed later this year by Computers for Seniors: Get Stuff Done in 13 Easy Lessons. These books will help you learn about technology with step-by-step instructions, full-colour pictures and activities, and you can order them from Dymocks, QBD, Readings or Amazon.
The Chelsea PC Support Group meets on the first Saturday of each month at Longbeach Place, 15 Chelsea Rd, Chelsea from 1-3.30pm. You can find out more about the group and Seniors IT from the website www.seniorsit.com.au.