If seniors are in rocking chairs they're most likely in front of
computers surfing the Net.
That's because seniors are now the fastest growing demographic
of Internet users in Canada, according to the Minister Responsible
for Seniors, Jim Bradley.
Increasing Internet use by seniors is what prompted the
development of Seniorsinfo.ca, launched by the McGuinty government that provides information
and services to seniors from all levels of government.
Bradley consulted with seniors, as well as their families and
caregivers, on what they wanted to see in the site.
"They told us what they need is a quick and easy way to access
information on programs and services, particularly those that they
can access in their own hometown," said Bradley. "So the site
really represented what they were looking for, which was a one stop
shop."
Currently 22 Ontario communities have customized sites that can
be accessed through the Seniors Info site, including Brockville and
Saugeen Shores.
Bill Gleberzon is the director of government relations for CARP,
Canada's Association for the Fifty-Plus and
while he said the site is comprehensive and informative, he is not
without concerns.
"Governments come up with some very good stuff, programs and
information, but they never let people know about it," said
Gleberzon. "One of the major concerns I have about a site like this
is how are they letting people know about it?"
Bradley said they'll be making people aware though advertising
by the Ontario Seniors Secretariat, as well as informing libraries
throughout the province.
"We think that the word will spread quickly," Bradley said.
"We're also going to get municipalities interested through the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario, but I think it's a good
start and we want to expand the program rapidly and
comprehensively."
Despite his concern Gleberzon welcomes the site and concurred
with Bradley that this development acknowledges that seniors are
among the fastest growing users of the Internet.
Senior Net use will likely increase as baby boomers begin to
retire, Gleberzon said.
"I think this is very laudable, and it's very welcome because
this represents recognition that older people are not computer
illiterate, that they are very up to date and savvy," he said. "It
overcomes a whole bunch of myths around seniors that people
have."
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