Age, mobility and email

Abstract

This research project investigated practical aspects of teaching older, retired people to use the Internet, with particular emphasis on email. The study was carried out in Melbourne, Australia. This paper deals with the justification for the research, its aims, objectives and mid-term results. A small number of residents in retirement accommodation, aged 84-97, have been tutored on a one-to-one basis to use email and other computer/Internet applications. Though several endemic hurdles have been experienced, the research shows the benefits of email and ways to overcome some of the problems. © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited