SWIC PSOP TO hold computer classes for seniors

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Do you feel like everyone in the world knows how to use a computer but you? The SeniorLink Computer Club is here to help! This computer club, part of Southwestern Illinois College Programs and Services for Older Persons, gives senior citizens a chance to learn basic computer skills.

SeniorLink provides seniors and baby boomers, with little or no computer knowledge, a venue to learn basic skills in a small, non-threatening environment. The SeniorLink Computer Club gives an introduction to personal computer operating skills, computer keyboards and accessories, the Internet and e-mail, computer software programs and security issues. Some students even go on to take more advanced computer classes at SWIC.

&#210;We take the &#212;fear&#213; out of learning the computer by providing a stress-free, senior-friendly environment,&#211; said SeniorLink Program Coordinator Doris Olah. &#210;Seniors are at the peak of their life&#213;s experience, and yet they find themselves being left behind in a whole new world of communication.&#211;

Olah goes on to explain that as computers become more necessary not only for the work place, but for home use as well, computer skills will be essential for day-to-day life. Whether it&#213;s researching, communicating with family and friends or doing simple business procedures like shopping or banking online, computer skills are a must in today&#213;s society.

&#210;The mature segment of our society knows full well that if they don&#213;t get up-to-date on the new technology, they&#213;ll be left in the dust,&#211; said Olah. &#210;SeniorLink is very proud to help boost them into the cyber world.&#211;

Classes meet for two hours once a week for a six-week period. The upcoming fall session will begin the week of Sept. 8. Classes are offered at both the PSOP Building, 201 N. Church St. in Belleville and the SWIC Sam Wolf Granite City Campus, 4950 Maryville Road.

For more information on SeniorLink, call Olah at 618-234-4410, ext. 7018, email her at doris.olah@swic.edu or visit www.swic.edu/psop/slink.