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Computer initiative is web of intrigue

Wednesday, 16 April 2008

IF you receive an email shortly from one of your grandparents, don’t be so shocked that you have to take a second look or believe that it must have been sent on their behalf.
Dublin City Council and Age Action Ireland have joined forces to establish Getting Started, a joint initiative to provide Information and Communications Technology (ICT) training to older persons who are residents of sheltered housing complexes in the city.
Six complexes have been chosen as part of the pilot project.
Staff from different sections in Dublin City Council, including the Dublin.ie team, are currently involved in this project, and Age Action Ireland has trained volunteers to carry out this ambitious 10-week programme.
Research has shown that older adults who have received computer training have enhanced self-esteem and mental ability, increased social interaction between generations, greater community involvement and independence, increased levels of self-confidence and lower levels of loneliness.

Residents of the complexes are learning the basics of word processing, email and internet usage.
Dublin.ie Project Manager, Peter Dee, said: “The programme is a great way to introduce older people to computers and is designed to take the mystery out of modern technology in a friendly and relaxed manner.”
Mary Dowman said the course offers her the chance to learn computer skills so that she can keep in contact with her daughter and grandchildren in Israel.
“I was there recently and my daughter was receiving emails from everyone,” stated Ms Dowman.
“I felt left out so that is why I decided to learn how to use the computer and I look forward to being able to keep in touch with them by email.”
Age Action development officer Ann Neville said: “Trainees want to use their new skills to communicate with family overseas and to pursue interests such as literature, films and music.”
A graduation ceremony for trainees who have completed the programme will take place in the Mansion House on May 26.
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Paddy Bourke, will present certificates to the graduates.
The second phase of the project will be rolled out over the next six months. Nine complexes have been identified across the city.
Royal Bank of Scotland has offered trained IT staff to work alongside Age Action in providing further training for the elderly.
For more information visit: www.dublin.ie/gettingstarted

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