LIAM DURKIN
By LIAM DURKIN
WITH the use of digital technology becoming even more necessary in the last two years, a number of senior citizens across the Latrobe Valley may have found difficulties learning and embracing the range of technological devices available to them.
The Victorian Men’s Shed Association and Latrobe Health Assembly has sought to address this, partnering with not-for-profit Maturity Matters to deliver a number of sessions to local men’s sheds, aimed at improving digital literacy skills.
The sessions are set to benefit men’s sheds across the region, especially given the requirements in this day-and-age of checking in and providing vaccination status.
Members of the Newborough Men’s Shed recently undertook a session, and were taken through a range of topics including how to use mobile apps, set up video chats and complete online banking.
Members were also briefed on internet safety, avoiding scams and, what is sure to make
The Express’ IT manager Paul Glaister proud – strong password management.
Maturity Matters co-founder Craig Panagiris said a key part of the program was about showing how computer technology could be used in everyday life.
“Using what we call ‘home based technology’, whether that is a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, giving them more confidence in using today’s technology,” he said.
“(We’re) really supporting the men’s sheds in what they want to achieve using the technology
that might be connecting with people socially or researching.”
While some in the older generation might feel as though they won’t be able to adjust to such an advanced computer age, Mr Panagiris said there was nothing to be daunted about.
“We take the approach we try to simplify everything and demystify it, keep it really simple,”
he said.
“There is a lot of language around today’s technology that not a lot of people understand so we just take it slow in a very patient, practical approach.
“People probably don’t realise what today’s phones can do, from when they were just phones when you just make a telephone call, to now you’re holding a little computer in your hand.
“We do a little exercise where we liken a mobile phone to a Swiss army knife and we talk about the different things people can do on their phone.”
Newborough Men’s Shed president Daryl Stevenson said members appreciated Maturity Matters providing them with some insights.
“It’s great, we can all do with it, especially me, I’m hopeless with phones,” he said laughingly.
Members of the Newborough Men’s Shed will be able to learn at their own pace, thanks to a computer pod that has been installed on its premises.
Newborough Men’s Shed has grown in prominence since being established four years ago, with membership attracting people from all walks of life, including Labor Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing. Newborough Men’s Shed is located at 41D Monash Road and open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
