How Many Of Us Are Out There?

I came across the following bits of information a short while ago while searching the net, and I thought you might be interested to know some statistics related to the use of computers by older adults. Some of these statistics came from SeniorNet, which is a national nonprofit organization of computer-using adults, age 50 and older. Other information came from a national survey conducted by Richard P. Adler of SeniorNet. I might note that I tried to get some narrowed-down Mac statistics from the Apple site on the Internet and couldn't find anything. There is a great deal of advertising on the SeniorNet site, but on the other hand, there are some fun things as well. For instance do you instantly recognize the following quotes?

SeniorNet links to a site that includes these quotes, as well as other interesting information about Casablanca. You can also access it directly at the Casablanca quote site. Ask your younger family members if they have seen Casablanca. Don't be surprised if they turn up their noses. I was quite shocked when I realized that my kids didn't see why I enjoyed it so much. They have no frame of reference to appreciate it as many of my generation do. Remind them of that when they are trying to show you how to do something on your computer for which YOU have no frame of reference.

Anyhow, here are the statistics I mentioned.

So, are you fairly typical based on this information? I found the stats that demonstrate that word processing is the most popular application on the Macintosh to be very surprising. According to my mail and the questions I get, word processing applications are the most intimidating to older users. Someone explained that to me once as being related to having learned to use a typewriter proficiently. She said that it was very hard to transfer the typewriter knowledge (and expectations) to word processing and all that word processing can do. It sounds realistic to me, based on how long it took me to make that transition.

Speaking of letters and questions from readers -- My next column will include questions from readers. The ones I could answer and the ones I couldn't and the answers that go along with the questions. Meanwhile, it was 104 degrees here in Austin today. A very good time to pull out Casablanca, fix something very cold to drink and relax in front of the TV.

If you have any questions, comments, or tips, let me know and I may include them in a future column.

Copies of Nancy's book Tips, Hints, and Solutions for Seasoned Beginners Using Apple Macintosh Computers With OS X are available in PDF download versions  for US$9.57 and in print version for $18.15 plus $4.00 shipping.   To view sample pages and get ordering information visit the September 14, 2004 column.

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Check out Nancy's complete index of all her columns for the most complete list of tips anywhere. The list is categorized and is a great reference when you are looking for help! A Capacious Catalog Of Computer Tips

Talking to a generation that remembers what the world was like before there was color, covers issues for people who don't care how their computer works, but rather what their computer and the internet can do for them.

Nancy has a Master's degree in Human Services Administration and prior to her retirement she worked for almost 30 years in field of mental health and mental retardation. She has been a Mac user for 11 years, and has recently developed an avocation of teaching basic computer skills in both group and one-to-one settings.

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