It s also a time to take stock of the fact that Americans are living longer and longer, and to consider ways to make the later years of life happy and productive. And one important and effective way to keep seniors involved is by helping them merge onto the information superhighway. By helping older Americans gain the skills they need to make the most of computer technology and the Internet we can help them stay employable, informed and in touch with family and friends.
Computer companies can help.
Recently I secured a major technology grants from Microsoft and AgeLight for the Clinton Township Senior Center and Porter Hills Retirement community in Grand Rapids Michigan. More and more jobs require computer literacy, so older Americans have to keep up with advancing technology if they want to be able to get jobs. Computer programs such as these also provide older Americans with access to the Internet. By surfing the net seniors can keep themselves informed of the issues of the day, from hostilities in the Balkans to taxes and other issues in their own backyards. Perhaps most important, Internet email can provide older Americans with a cost-effective way to keep in touch with family members around the nation and around the globe.