How to Offer Computer Classes to the Elderly

The benefits of computers to seniors are many and varied. Isolation and loneliness are drastically reduced by individuals who are able to connect with friends and relatives through the use of e-mail. The convenience of banking and shopping on line are appreciated by those who find visiting the mall physically challenging. Playing on-line games, such as solitaire or television-based game shows, keep aging minds active and engaged. Whether your target population of seniors resides at home, a retirement residence, or a long-term care facility, offering computer classes for this demographic can be a mutually rewarding endeavor.

Things You'll Need

  • Police records check -- updated yearly
  • Letters of introduction/reference
  • Academic resume
  • Brochure of services and rates, if applicable
  • Business cards
  • List of local retirement homes
  • List of local long term care homes
  • List of senior recreational facilities
  • List of public I nternet access facilities
  • Service contracts
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Instructions

  1. Establish Your Credibility

    • 1

      Prepare an academic resume. Indicate how and where you learned about computers. Include schools attended, places worked and three references that seniors can contact to ask about you and your business.

    • 2

      Procure a police records check from your local police detachment. Seniors can be a vulnerable population. All seniors' homes and many relatives who may be paying for your services will want the assurance that you are trustworthy, bondable and have no criminal record.

    • 3

      Prepare a brochure outlining the services you are prepared to offer and their cost, if applicable. Decide if you will be volunteering your services or working for a fee. Include specific topics you will cover, including e-mail, on-line shopping, and health research.

    • 4

      Provide your contact information for interested customers.

    Advertise

    • 5

      Design and print business cards to leave with business contacts and potential customers. You may do this yourself using your own computer or have cards printed at your local copy shop.

    • 6

      Create a list of senior residences in your area. Contact residence administrators or volunteer coordinators to set up meetings to discuss your services.

    • 7

      Request permission to post your brochure or business card on the residents' bulletin board.

    • 8

      Contact store managers at your local mall. Request permission to post your brochure on their public information board.

    • 9

      Place advertisements in your local newspaper. For many seniors, the daily paper is the only source of news and information.

    Research Class Locations

    • 10

      Inquire about the availability of a computer and Internet connection in seniors' homes that may be used for your classes. Ask if you may use the Internet if you bring in your own laptop.

    • 11

      Locate public Internet access at your local library. Inquire about booking time for your classes.

    • 12

      Research Internet access at local coffee shops. Many establishments will allow you to bring in your own laptop and occupy a table for the price of a cup of coffee.

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