Computer-Savvy Seniors are Product of Popular Course

From turning on a laptop computer and learning to use a touchpad, to protecting against computer viruses or uploading photos, each Thursday a group of seniors have become a little more laptop-savvy through the Lexington Senior Center's "Basic Computing" course.

The course, which was offered for the first time at the Senior Center starting in June, was instantly popular, and after the 12 slots were filled, 10 to 12 more people were added to the waiting list.

"People were really happy to see that offering," said Senior Services Coordinator Barbara Deveau. "A lot of people had a laptop or were given a laptop, but had nowhere else to go for training."

Though yesterday's class was the last in the six-class session, Deveau and teacher George Gamota say they hope to offer a similar class in the fall.

"The focus is to try to help senior citizens who have difficulty with computers, or those who let computers pass them by, to help them learn the very basics," Gamota said.

The course started out with lessons on the laptop touchpad or mouse, then moved on to finding and creating folders, using the internet and e-mail and how to install virus protection software.

The July 15 class covered uploading photos to the computer, storing them, and learning how to order, print or share the pictures online.

For Margaret Cole, taking the class has been a chance to learn more about a new laptop her son bought for her – though Cole said she's learned she doesn't like all the "extras" and just wants to stick to e-mail and internet research. 

"Once you become accustomed to one system, changing is very difficult," she said. "I'm learning all over again."

For Jackie McShine, the class has given her more confidence using her computer. A friend had shown her how to use e-mail, but previously she knew little else about using the laptop.

"I'm glad it was advertised in the newsletter, I have learned a lot," she said. "I have used more things than e-mail – it's been very beneficial."