FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — For a lot of older adults, expertise can really feel overwhelming. A missed click on, a complicated menu or an unfamiliar web site can shortly flip a easy job right into a irritating expertise.
The Metropolis of Fresno’s PARCS Division is working to alter that by its free Tech Straightforward Digital Literacy Program, which offers hands-on laptop coaching for neighborhood members ages 55 and older.
This system is designed to assist older adults construct confidence utilizing expertise whereas staying related to household, mates and essential sources.
Participant Stella Ruiz has been taking the course for the previous few weeks.
She makes use of a cellphone, however says she’s nonetheless getting the cling of computer systems.
“Throughout our age once we went to highschool, we did not have computer systems,” Ruiz stated. “We had these large typewriters, after which we went on to the electrical typewriters.”
Aaron Aguirre, director of the Fresno PARCS Division, stated the lessons are provided at a number of neighborhood facilities all through the town and give attention to foundational expertise expertise.
“You know the way to make use of a mouse, the right way to work in file buildings, the right way to click on on icons, create shortcuts, after which it progresses into emails, phrase processing,” Aguirre stated.
Every session lasts one month and is restricted to 12 individuals, permitting instructors to offer one-on-one help.
Contributors are anticipated to finish eight hours of instruction.
As an added incentive, those that full this system obtain a expertise merchandise to take house.
Relying on out there funding, which will embrace a pill, earbuds or different digital system.
The lessons are free for individuals due to grant funding.
Aguirre stated this system serves one other essential goal: serving to defend seniors from on-line scams and fraud.
“Oftentimes, , you hear of seniors and even youthful adults falling sufferer to fraud,” Aguirre stated. “So, making an attempt to introduce them to protected web sites, what to search for and actually simply be sure that they’re protected, their funds are protected, after which in the end, maintaining them related to family and friends.”
Ruiz, 82, has been attending lessons repeatedly and stated she enjoys each the training expertise and the social interplay.
“It is not like once we had been little children, you possibly can make amends for issues simply,” she stated. “Now it is even more durable for us to catch it — but it surely’s enjoyable. I take pleasure in it.”
As a widow, Ruiz stated the category additionally provides her a purpose to get out of the home and spend time with others dealing with related challenges.
“I really feel misplaced, however then on the similar time, we assist one another,” she stated.
Two new classes are scheduled to start in July and September.
Residents age 55 and older can register in individual at Inspiration Park on Friday, July 17, or by calling 621-PARK.
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