More volunteers like Kiki Elliott are needed to help teach seniors how to use various computer devices, including their tablets.
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The Gillieston Heights woman has started helping at the Maitland Senior Citizens Centre computer classes this year and she finds it rewarding.
“I love it and I’m
happy to help them,” she said.
Mrs Elliott, like other volunteers who make up a small but dedicated group, has no formal qualifications, but is willing to share what she knows.
Born in Indonesia, Mrs Elliott was an office worker before she moved to Australia.
The seniors and pensioners are keen to
ask her questions about how to use their iPads.
“All you need is patience but they’re very keen to do it,” Mrs Elliott said.
“They’re here to learn because they want to know about the world.”
Billie Ann Werner is one of the class co-ordinators. She has been a volunteer teacher at the classes for the past five years.
“We desperately need new teachers,” she said.
“No qualifications are needed, you just teach what you know.”
Tuition in how to use tablets and handle digital photographs are among the most popular lessons.
The classes attract about 30 people each Tuesday from 9.30am. The classes usually finish at 11.30am, if not earlier.
“Sometimes the seniors have had enough after an hour and a half and need to go home and let it all sink in,” Mrs Werner said.
Her husband, Stan, is among a dedicated group of men who set up the computers each week and keep them in good condition.
Mrs Werner’s mother, Dorothy Scammell, also helps out taking the $5 fee from participants each week.
Membership of the Maitland Seniors and Pensioners Association costs $5 each year and it runs weekly sessions in dancing, singing and carpet bowls among other activities.
For information about how to volunteer at the hall call 4934 5171.