Seniors and the Internet
By Sherril Steele-Carlin
Seniors are turning to the Internet in ever-increasing numbers, but many are still stymied by this new fangled invention. If that includes you, then stay tuned, and learn more about the wonderful world of the Internet, and how seniors can find loads of information they need and want.
The Encyclopedia Britannica defines the Internet as "a network connecting many computer networks and based on a common addressing system and communications protocol called TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.)" There, doesn't that make everything perfectly clear? If you think that sounds more like Greek than English, you're not alone. Starting down the online path can be scary and very intimidating to a novice, but it really isn't all that difficult once you take the plunge. If the prospect of sitting down in the comfort of your own home and sipping a cup of coffee while chatting with someone in Australia or Greenland is appealing to you, then the Internet is for you.
What's Out There?
More Web sites for seniors appear every day. There are sites that cater to every interest, hobby, concern, and whim of senior citizens. You can find everything from travel catering especially to seniors, to message boards where you can chat with others who have the same interests and concerns that you do. If you're looking for a travel partner, there are sites that list others just like you who are looking, too. Are you lonely? Unable to get out of your home too often? There are many others just like you who are sitting down ant talking with new friends every day. If you've recently lost a loved one, there are sites that offer bereavement counseling and information just for you. The links below will take you to some of these interesting sites for you to check out, plus many more of interest to seniors, both experienced computer users, and beginners.
Beginner's Luck
If you're just starting out on the Internet, and want to learn more, there are plenty of sites geared to your needs. You can find articles that talk about all aspects of the Internet, as well as self-guided tours that explain some of the terms you'll encounter, and how to search in search engines for topics that interest you. One site called "Senior.com" offers "live chats" every day. You can sign-on and talk to other people your age about everything. Some of the topics they've discussed in the past range from how to use your computer, to some of the best Web Sites, to where they live, and what kind of music they like. If you have questions, this is the place to find the answers, just as quickly as you can ask them. Most of the chatters in these live chats are friendly and welcoming to newcomers, too.
Searching for Topics
If you sign on to the Internet and spend a few minutes searching for senior topics, you'll discover there are literally hundreds of sites waiting for you explore. One of the most popular search engines (places to search for information) is Google. Just type in "Senior Internet" at Google and you'll come up with thousands of entries to keep you busy surfing the Net for weeks.
