Sue Barkoe with me walking in Dubrovnik

Many people over the age of 55 have confided in me that they have taken their tech prowess just so far because they hate feeling stupid in front of their adult children. Most seniors are children-dependent when it comes to purchasing equipment and learning how to use software. The kids are okay for a while, but if you ask the same question twice or interrupt them when they are busy, watch out. The interaction can be pretty ugly. 

Even the best children in the world will become impatient and question your aptitude to learn something new–especially if you don’t comprehend most of what they are explaining on the first round. My own daughter has remarked on a number of occasions that I may have short term memory loss because I ask the same questions over and over.

Sue with her friends on the trip. They are all tech savvy.

Fret no more. Help is at your local Apple store. I am not trying to push Apple because I am a fan. I am devoting a blog post to this subject because most of us are in the same situation. Apple just happens to offer exactly what you need. If anyone knows of other services do let me know. 

Apple offers free workshops.  Learn something new by taking one of the free workshops at an Apple Store. They’re taught by people who really know Apple products and are eager to share their knowledge with you.  Learn the basics of Mac, iPad, iPhone, or iPod. Find out how to create instant slideshows in iPhoto, make a home movie with iMovie, or get directions on iPhone. Be sure to sign up in advance to reserve a spot. – http://www.apple.com/retail/learn/ 

And when you buy a new Mac, you can sign up for One to One training and take your skills to the next level.  One to One will help you do more than you ever thought possible with your new Mac. First, we’ll set up your email, transfer your photos, music, and other files, and show you how to keep everything in sync with iCloud. Then, we’ll work with you to create a curriculum tailored to your goals, learning style, and experience level. 

One to One is just $99 for a full year and is available only at the time you buy a new Mac from the Apple Retail Store or the Apple Online Store. – http://www.apple.com/retail/learn/one-to-one/ 

Susan Barkoe, one of my traveling companions for the past two weeks in Croatia, Slovenia and Montenegro, told me that getting involved in the One-on-One tutor program that Apple offers was one of the best decisions she has made since her husband died. “I used to refer to him as ‘my computer.’ He did everything for me. My son helped me at first but he only had limited availability. He recommended Apple’s in store program. I love it. 

“I see one of the same three tutors during my sessions. They help me with any question I have. Nothing is stupid to them. They give me confidence and tell me how well I am doing. The session is an hour and I can ask as many questions as I want, covering as many topics as I need. I even ask them about non-Apple products like my digital camera. This program has given me a strong foundation for everything I need to do.”

Mrs. Johnson, the subject of yesterday’s post, said the Apple in-store assistance program has given her life a whole new positive purpose. “For most of my life I was a wife and mother. That was my focus. Now I want to do things for myself and that interest me. The Apple program has introduced me to opportunities that I never thought would be possible at my age. I feel like I was reborn. If you look at my app library on my iPad you will see that I am involved in bridge, religion, current events, word games, social media, novels, travel, charities and causes.  I take my iPad with me everywhere, especially when I am traveling. I love posting on Facebook and keeping up with all my friends. There are not enough hours in the day to do what I want to.  I feared semi-retirement for many years. Now I feel totally rejuvenated. I make a new appointment for my Apple visits the minute I finish a session. It is just a joy to be involved with young people who can share all this information with me and treat me like I am one of them. I think I have found the fountain of youth.”