Step1
Understand that senior citizens often learn differently than younger students, and require more individualized attention. Try to anticipate questions because many seniors might be too nervous to ask them.
Step2
Show seniors respect and patience. Many seniors believe they cannot learn new things at their age, and view the computer as intimidating. By encouraging them and talking to them about their fears, you can help them to understand that they can learn this new technology.
Step3
Repeat your instructions often. Speak slowly and clearly. Show seniors how to accomplish a particular task, and then guide them through the process of doing it themselves.
Step4
Consider teaching seniors how to use Microsoft products. The Windows operating system and the Office Suite are often available at local libraries and community centers where senior citizens often use computers.
Step5
Help seniors overcome the fear of the computer right away. Take apart an old computer and point out the memory, processor and video cards. Explain the role of each. Show them the mouse, the keyboard and the monitor and how each plugs into the computer box.
Step6
Turn on a computer and demonstrate how to use the mouse and keyboard. To get them started, show the seniors how to play Solitaire or type some text in the word processing program.
Step7
Teach basic computer commands, such as how to use a keyboard shortcut, display a menu or click on a button.
Step8
Demonstrate how to use specific programs, such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and explain what each is commonly used for. Try to give examples that are relevant to seniors. For example, you might mention that the seniors can use Word to type letters to friends and Excel to track their spending.
Step9
Show the senior citizens how to access the Internet. Teach the concept of a search engine, and then ask them to type in a search term to find information on a topic of interest to them. If the senior citizen is having difficulty using the computer's mouse, place your hand over his and gently guide the mouse in the right direction.
Step10
Be aware of any mobility or ergonomic issues the seniors might have. Make them comfortable in front of the computer. Familiarize yourself with Microsoft's Accessibility tools, which can enable you to make the text on the monitor appear larger and more readable.
Step11
End the session by telling the seniors that they should practice using a computer a few times a week, so they can retain what they've learned and build new computer skills. Create a list of common computer functions, menus, commands and buttons with explanations on how to use each. Give it to the senior citizen so she can practice using the computer when you're not around.
