I visited my 71-year-old dad on Saturday and found him sitting in his kitchen typing on his iPad. I asked him “do you love your iPad?” He answered with a dispassionate grumble: “yes, but it takes up two hours a day of my time that I used to spend doing other things!”?I pointed out that I think technology and the internet is great for folks with decreased mobility, to which he responded “which is already happening.”
Until a couple of years ago, my dad had never touched a computer. He’s a physician by trade and it just wasn’t something that he ever felt he needed to learn. But he’s embraced it and we are proud of him.
The folks in the Cyber-Seniors project embraced it, too, after a bumpy start.
From the video description:
A humorous and heartwarming documentary feature, Cyber-Seniors chronicles the extraordinary journey of a group of senior citizens as they discover the world of the Internet through the guidance of teenage mentors.?
Their exploration of cyber-space is catapulted to another level when 89 year-old Shura decides to create a YouTube cooking video, inspiring her fellow cyber-seniors to do the same. A spirited competition for video “views” evolves as hidden talents and competitive spirits are revealed.?
This charming film provides insight into the wonderful things that can happen when generation gaps are bridged and proves you are never too old to get ‘connected’.
If you’re interested in becoming a mentor or if you’re a senior who would like to learn more about computers, visit the Cyber-Seniors website. You can start mentoring someone today by downloading the participant handbook (it’s free!) and finding a senior in your community (or family) who is eager to become connected.
As for my dad? I left my son there with him on Saturday. As I was walking out the door, I heard him say “Bubba, I’m typing an email so give me a few minutes.”
Enjoy the video and be sure to let us know your thoughts at the Liberal America Facebook page.
Tiffany Willis is the founder and editor-in-chief of Liberal America. An unapologetic member of the Christian Left, she has spent most of her career actively working with ?the least of these? and disadvantaged and oppressed populations. She’s passionate about their struggles. To stay on top of topics she discusses,?like her?Facebook page,?follow her on Twitter, or?connect with her via LinkedIn. She also has?a?grossly neglected personal blog?and a?literary quotes blog that is a labor of love. Find her somewhere and join the discussion.
