Where to start?

14 years ago

I got such good advice on my last question, I now have another. I have an elderly friend who has no computer skills. What is the best way for him to learn? I mean, he needs to start at the beginning--this is a mouse, this is a monitor, etc. He has typing skills he has used for years, so there will be no hunting and pecking. "Computers for Dummies"? any web site? What's your advice here. I don't have enough skills to be much help to him.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (8)

abreeze
14 years ago
I did a quick Google search for free online tutorials to learn computer basics. I skimmed through a few and thought this one taught using the mouse very well:

http://tech.tln.lib.mi.us/tutor/

The lessons at the next link are geared to the computer's operating system: XP or Windows 7 (and Vista). Check them out for yourself. Hope they help.

Here is a link that might be useful: Computer Tutorials for Beginners
mxyplx
14 years ago
First I googled: how old is elderly
Lotta hits - most of em tickt me off-if you are over 50 you'll understand.....

2nd I googled: how to teach an elderly person to use a computer
Lotta hits - some recommended programs/methods

Abreeze: looks like we were in synch.
Related Discussions
Want to start canning, where to start
Q
Comments (3)
Ok, first, yes you do need some sort of tray or something to keep the jars from sitting directly on the pot bottom. Some use a folded t-towel but many options are available - cake rack, inverted jar rings tied together to form a shelf, any aluminum cake/pie pan with holes punched in it that will fit in the bottom of the pan, etc. But a space of some sort that the water can move freely through is required. You will also need a lid for the pot. Second, yes, buying the Ball Blue Book is the best place to start. The best online source is NCHFP (linked below) as their guidelines and recipes form the base for all other publications. There are tons of recipes available online but unfortunately the majority of them are untested, unapproved recipes so done at your own risk. When new to canning we here consistently recommend using only tested/approved recipes and info sources. There are many discussions here about which books/sites are approved and which should be avoided. Third, without a pressure canner the only canning you will be able to do is jams/jellies, some fruits, plain tomatoes, and pickled foods. Pressure canning is required for everything else. Dave PS: and welcome to the forum. :) NCHFP - How to BWB Can foods NCHFA - Pickled Beets Here is a link that might be useful: NCHFP
...See More
Vintage refrigerator repair? Where to start?
Q
Comments (11)
They would be repaired just like any appliance and requires understanding how each appliance works along with the knowledge of all the mechanical systems involved with each appliance. If you have the above and an external component failed independent of the refrigerant system you get lucky and replace the component. If it's a failing compressor or a refrigerant leak about $1000+ in equipment is needed to repair the system. Vacuum pump, gauges, leak detector, torch, (plus braze welding skills) thermometers and a refrigerant weight scale. An ounce off on the charge either way will not allow it to function properly. Finding the right refrigerant will also be a challenge. It's easy once you acquire all of the above. The refrigerator runs but cycles off a few time per day, it's either because the refrigerant leaked out or the compressor valves are broken or worn out. Cycling is because of a mechanical defrost timer calling for a defrost based on time and not temperature so you know it's working. I tore apart refrigerators Kaseki talked about and the condenser tubes under the skin would rust quickly if allowed to sit without running, the heat produced while running kept them dry. If this Frig doesn't have a condenser next to the compressor it's under the skin and not worth trying to repair.
...See More
where to start on this bathroom
Q
Comments (8)
As long as you choose a basic neutral tile it shouldn't cost more than LVT either. And I'm all for choosing something basic and neutral because that's what has the most longevity. However, I would spring for new vanities. You're already almost doing the whole thing. You have to remove them to get to the floor underneath anyway, so why put them back. Put 12 X 24" on the floor and the same tile in a smaller size on the shower floor. Look for a coordinating tile for the shower walls. If you use neutral tile different wall colors should work depending on your preference. Whether you keep the vanities or not you should try to center the light fixture over the one in your picture. If there is a real tile store near you, go there and get assistance from a salesperson instead of trying to figure it out yourself at a big box store. They can also make recommendations for competent tile setters.
...See More
landscape design - where to start?
Q
Comments (8)
" I don’t know anything about the art of landscaping - are there any design principles or functional aspects that I should take into consideration? " Most definitely!! Landscape design is an integrated profession that combines horticulture with basic design principles. There are online tutorials (most of which are only so-so) as well as numerous books (available at libraries or Amazon) that explain the concepts and principles quite adequately. I'd suggest you check to see if these would help with your learning curve. And while you are checking out those books, look for The Undaunted Garden by Lauren Springer. She is an accomplished garden designer, author and horticulturist based in Colorado and her books are well suited to both your climate and garden aesthetic.
...See More
owbist
14 years ago
To get comfortable with the mouse have him play a few games. Make sure the Games folder is loaded with his Windows, click Start, click All programs, click Games.

Then have him play solitaire and perhaps minesweeper BUT have him read the rules so he can get to understand single click, double click and right click.

After that teach him how to Google for anything he wants to know, easier than trying to find it in an out of date book in my estimation.
morz8 - Washington Coast
14 years ago
Another thought - my mother, 84 1/2, has been using a computer about 10 years now, although somewhat limited use -

In her city, there are basic classes at the Senior Center, occasionally through her YMCA, and also adult continuing education classes at her community college where fees to seniors are minimal expense.
DA_Mccoy
14 years ago
Along the lines of M8 and senior centers: libraries, fraternal organizations, religious centers, school district adult continuing education,store public bulletin boards, etc.

If a member of AARP you could contact them for guidance and/or referral.

DA
jane__ny
14 years ago
Absolutely agree. The lessons given by senior centers and libraries are the best way to start. I have found people learn better when they have someone supervise to avoid frustration and fear. Many older people are terribly afraid they will 'break' the computer or cause some sort of damage to it.

Jane
nearandwest
14 years ago
The local library is a good starting point...in my town they offer beginning computer classes for Seniors. The local community college is another good place for a Senior to learn computer skills.
ravencajun Zone 8b TX
14 years ago
there are also online sources for tutorials and forums just for that but then he would have to at least be able to navigate the pc enough to get to those sites.

Classes are a very good choice, I do some little classes for some of the elderly here, I was asked to help some of the churches for their senior groups. The main issue with that is you would not be using your own pc and of course every pc is a bit different.

Where to start?

Comments (8)

abreeze

mxyplx

Related Discussions

owbist

morz8 - Washington Coast

DA_Mccoy

jane__ny

nearandwest

ravencajun Zone 8b TX

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US