New PC delivers older adults to the digital age

LONDON - Older adults, who find working on computer a complicated task, a new PC with simplified desktop may offer hope.

The computer called SimpliciTY - developed by Wessex Computers and a website aimed at older people called discount-age - has just six buttons that would direct elderly users to basic tasks such as e-mail and chat.

It comes pre-loaded with 17 video tutorials from television presenter Valerie Singleton.

The made-to-order SimplicITy computer has no log-in screen when started up, and contains no drop-down menus.

“I think people just don’t understand them,” BBC News quoted Singleton as saying.

“I’ve been using a computer for quite some time and I don’t understand everything. Every time I learn a new thing to do on my computer I have to write it down so that I can remember it,” she added.

The e-mail system is a modified version of an Italian design called Eldy.

All SimplicITy users with an eldy.org address will be able to chat to each other via the “chat” button.

The PC is built using Linux operating system, a free operating system that can be customised by users. If required, people can replace SimplicITy desktop with a standard Linux desktop.

Andrew Harrop, head of public policy for charity Age Concern and Help the Aged, said efforts to get older people online should be “applauded”.

“Pensioners who aren’t online are missing out on hundreds of pounds in potential savings by shopping around and can also often miss out on the best interest rates for savings accounts, not to mention the social benefits of being online,” he added. (ANI)