Connecting seniors through the internet

A PROGRAM designed to help seniors learn how to use computers and the internet launched in Torquay last week.

Funded by the federal government, the “Be Connected” program teaches seniors through practical hands-on workshops.

In the Surf Coast Shire these workshops are being conducted by volunteers from the University of the Third Age (U3A).

Surf Coast U3A president John Bartlett said the courses will open up new opportunities to their attendees.

“The internet and computers in general can be a bit daunting for the older demographic. But these classes and course give them the opportunity not to be cut off from activities.

“It diminishes social isolation and gives them the skills to connect with their family and friends, and to be part of that wider internet community.”

As part of the “Be Connected” program, U3A will be running two new courses: Be Connected for Seniors and Family History Online.

The Be Connected for Seniors course will offer eight one-hour sessions each Monday in Term four at Torquay Community House. Each session will cover a separate topic, such as emails, shopping online and being secure online.

The Family History Online workshop is a one-off four-hour workshop to be held at the Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre on Wednesday October 9. This workshop not only helps show the wide range of online tools for finding out about one’s family history, but also enhances their computer skills in the process.

Being competent in using the internet on various devices can be a good way for seniors to remain in contact with friends and family who live far away.

The Geelong Regional Libraries Corporation (GRLC) is involved in the program and encourages those who don’t own computers to make use of the ones at the GRLC libraries.

To book a place in one of the workshops, head to u3asurfcoast.org.au/courses-activities/.