Your grandma is moving into an assisted living community and she wants to learn how to use the computer so she can take a laptop with her and stay in touch with everyone using email and Skype. Her generation didn’t grow up with computers; it doesn’t come as naturally to her as it does to the younger generations. Where do you begin?

First of all, it’s really exciting that your grandma wants to learn how to do this! The entire family, no matter where they live, can share digital photos with grandma. And she can see her grandchildren and great-grandchildren that live far away! So – teaching grandma to be a little more computer literate is a really good idea.

Assisted Living in Alamo Heights, TXNot only can she stay in touch with all her family, she can also use the computer to watch videos, find out more about any illness or condition she has, read the news, watch a funny movie, etc.

How to start:

  1. Your grandma must have a desire to learn. If she doesn’t, it just won’t work out.
  2. Start with one thing at a time; either email or Skype; either watching movies or reading news. After she feels really comfortable in turning on the computer, doing that one task by herself, and turning off the computer, it’s time to move on to another thing.
  3. Give her some time to really feel comfortable with using the computer. Remember, it’s all new to her! She needs to build up some confidence and be able to find her way around on the internet by herself without a helper always showing her what to do next.
  4. Show grandma something she really needs and wants online. Don’t show her your over-stuffed inbox full of 2, 537 emails. It will overwhelm her. Don’t show her the latest greatest 3D killing game; she will hate it.
  5. Something that will help her in her daily life will get up her curiosity and interest in learning. Open a new email account for her, and then send her an email from you. Then, show her how to open the email and read it.
  6. At first, you can sit in front of the computer and show her some possibilities. Go SLOW. Her mind won’t be able to keep up with what you’re doing if you talk and click too fast. Don’t overwhelm her. One or two things the first time is enough.
  7. Next, get your grandma to sit in front of the laptop/computer so she can get the feel of everything. Let her type and let her click the mouse. Always reinforce what she is doing with positive words of encouragement.
  8. Don’t underestimate your grandma! Her DNA, after all, is running through your veins. Let her learn at her own pace and she will surprise you!

For more information about Pipestone Place Assisted Living in Alamo Heights, TX or to take a tour, call today (210) 718-0211.

Samuel Vesa
Samuel Vesa
Owner at Pipestone Place Assisted Living
I enjoy working, but when I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and the coolest kid, my son.We visit the zoo and ride the train often. We play games and just have fabulous fun.I enjoy reading every chance I get.My favorite pie is pumpkin pie.
Samuel Vesa
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