Noosa's seniors get tech savvy with new program
Help is at hand for Noosa seniors keen to learn more about how to use technology.
“If the only tablet you’re familiar with is one you take with water, and you think browsing is something done only at the shops, you’re not alone, but Noosa Library Service can help you learn the basics with a wide range of free workshops on offer,” says Library Literacy and Learning Coordinator Tracey King.
The Library Service has received a $14,775 grant through the Tech Savvy Seniors project to introduce older Queenslanders to technology. This is the fifth year the Library Service has secured Tech Savvy Seniors funding to continue this popular program which has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community.
“Many seniors have embraced new technologies, but some are still overwhelmed or intimidated by the thought of getting online. We make the learning process easier by providing this free guidance in a friendly environment,” Ms King says.
“Seniors can book a place in the workshops to learn how to use a tablet device, navigate social media, shop online and access government services. This year we’ve introduced a new suite of workshops teaching seniors how to design a 3D object and how to print it out on the 3D printer,” says Ms King.
She said the training, to begin in February, also aimed to assist seniors to avoid internet scams and the pitfalls of online fraud when conducting business, shopping and banking.
The Tech Savvy Seniors Queensland Program – a partnership between the Queensland Government and Telstra – provides training at selected public libraries across Queensland to encourage more seniors to embrace information technology.
It aims to help seniors get connected and participate in the online world, with the objective of increasing digital inclusion, helping reduce social isolation and increasing access to government services.
The Tech Savvy Seniors Queensland program has been funded by Telstra and the Queensland Government through State Library of Queensland and the Department of Communities, Disability Services and Seniors.
For more information, phone (07) 5329 6555.
2 January 2019