[For Seniors] Don't limit yourself to just a smartphone! What is the world that opens up with a computer?
Introduction | Is a computer unnecessary if you have a smartphone? We answer that concern
“I can do everything on my smartphone, so don't I need a computer?”
Many people may feel that way.
But deep down, don't you think, “I'd like to try using a computer too”?
In this article,
I'm interested in computers but lack confidence
I don't know how they differ from smartphones
For seniors who feel this way, we will explain the appeal of computers, how to get started, and easy steps for using them in an easy-to-understand way.
1. [The actual reason] 3 barriers that make seniors feel computers are difficult
“Computers seem difficult.”
There are three main reasons for this.
1. Never had the opportunity to use one
Younger people had opportunities to use them naturally at school or work, but
many in the current senior generation have “never touched one,”
so it is natural to feel anxious about doing it for the first time.
2. Technical terms are hard to understand
“Double-click? Log in? What is drag?”
Words you hear for the first time all feel difficult.
But once you understand the meaning, you will get used to them quickly.
3. No one to ask when you don't understand
If it's a smartphone, you can ask family nearby, but
some people hesitate to ask about computers for some reason.
But now, it is an era where you can find answers if you look them up.
📌 The true nature of “difficult” is simply “not knowing.” Once you know, it becomes much easier!
2. [Convincing reasons] Why should you use a computer in addition to a smartphone?
When you use a computer, things you couldn't do or found difficult to do on a smartphone
become much easier and more comfortable to do.
But actually, the reason “why you should use a computer in addition to a smartphone” is not just about convenience.
🔹 3 reasons why you should use a computer (It's a waste to just use a smartphone)
1. Not just 'receiving' information, but learning to 'organize and utilize' it
→ By using a computer, you can do more than just look at things; you can organize and arrange information to suit your own life. For example,
keeping a household account book to track your cash flow,
organizing your accumulated photos into folders and printing only the ones you like,
or taking notes on things you want to know to create your own 'lifestyle notebook',
2. In an era where computer skills will become increasingly useful
→ You can utilize these as essential skills for the future society, such as for online applications, Myna Portal, pension and medical-related procedures, online courses, and side jobs.
3. You can learn calmly and thoroughly
→ While smartphones are quick to use, their small screens can lead to operation errors.
With a computer, the screen is larger, and you can work at your own pace with peace of mind.
📌 A computer is a tool for 'understanding, doing, and organizing'.
It brings 'ease' and 'new joys' to your daily life.
3. [Utilization Tips] 5 things you can do with a computer (that are difficult on a smartphone)
1. Organizing, saving, and printing photos
Transfer smartphone photos to your computer and manage them in folders. Printing at home is also easy.
2. Creating documents, household account books, and schedules with Word and Excel
You can neatly create and print 'thank-you notes', 'recipe notebooks', and 'monthly household account books'.
3. Easier online shopping
It is easier to compare multiple products at once and read reviews.
4. Learning on YouTube and interacting via Zoom
Taking courses or talking to grandchildren online. A world of possibilities.
5. Organizing memories and even video editing
Scanning old photos and editing or saving videos is much more comfortable on a computer.
📌 Smartphones are great for "viewing," while computers excel at "creating." That's why having both is so convenient.
4. [Example] It's not too late to start. People have started using computers in their 60s!
A prime example is Masako Wakamiya.
Ms. Wakamiya, who began learning to use a computer after turning 60, taught herself how to use Excel and, at the age of 81, developed an iPhone game app called "hinadan."
This app gained global attention, and in 2017, she even had a conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook.
Ms. Wakamiya says, "Thanks to the computer, I was given wings," and she continues to share the importance of enjoying the times by constantly upgrading herself instead of using age as an excuse.
Since then, she has continued to be active in a wide range of fields, including giving a speech at the UN headquarters and serving as an instructor for IT courses.
Her activities serve as a great encouragement that "you can take on challenges regardless of your age."
What's important is having the desire to "try it out." Age doesn't matter.
Instead of "It's too late..." think "Now is the time!"
Summary | For the senior generation, computers can expand your world
Computers, which you might have thought were "difficult," will surely become easier to use if you take it one step at a time.
Being able to do things you couldn't do on a smartphone will make your daily life even more enjoyable.
You can start now, at any age.
Please, try to discover new joys through a computer yourself.