Overview of CforAT's Services for Seniors

“Computer services for seniors? But seniors don’t use computers!”

Although this was once a commonly held belief, seniors are now thought to be the fastest-growing segment of computer users. Seniors who retired before using computers are eager to gain new skills; seniors who used computers at work want to continue using a computer as well as keep up with technological innovations.

Many older adults will find their use of computers made easier through use of technologies designed for people with disabilities. Sometimes use these solutions are simple; for example, changing built in preferences to make text easier to read. Some people may benefit from specialized hardware and software that make computers easier to use.

Unlike services for children or working-age adults, there are no government-mandated programs to assist retired adults with finding the right assistive technologies. But we have been working to fill this gap. Our "Up and Running" program allows us to provide up to six hours of support to seniors who want to learn what technologies are available and get training on how to use them.

We also work with seniors who are clients of the Department of Rehabilitation to help them keep their jobs or transition into new employment settings.

In addition, we are involved in several local and national initiatives on seniors' use of technology, to help thse programs understand how assistive technologies can be important part of senior training programs.

For more information on senior services at CforAT, email us.

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