Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
The College of New Caledonia will be offering free basic computer skills for seniors at the Learning Hub in Fort St. James.
According to Ann McCormick, regional supervisor for CNC Fort St. James, these classes are growing in popularity among seniors and the benefits are abundant.
“Computing can help seniors in so many ways. It’s an excellent tool for accessing their pension information on-line, looking up medications, recipes, health information, accessing family photos and e-mailing. It’s all about keeping them connected in today’s world,” McCormick said.
Many seniors are housebound, and according to McCormick, the ability to go-online prevents them from feeling isolated and brings families together.
There are many emotional benefits for seniors today who are interested in taking a computer course. Having the ability to communicate with family and friends on-line enhances self-esteem, happiness, and independence.
“It’s empowering,” McCormick says.
Mentally, seniors are able to stay sharp especially if they play any games on-line. Computing is also proven to improve hand/eye coordination.
“The classes are popular,” McCormick said. “Being in a group of seniors, they are all like-minded, so they share the same challenges. It’s all about sharing and getting comfortable with computers together.”
The classes will be held on Nov. 24, Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 from 1-4 p.m.
To register call: (250) 996-7078 or e-mail: obeect@cnc.bc.ca