Thinking about buying a computer?

Computers Designed JUST for Seniors

There are several computers advertised as already setup just for Seniors. If you are having a hard time dealing with the frustrations of getting around on a computer, this may be the best answer for you. If you are buying one for your aged parent, these may be just right for a basic computer.
They're all good products, I'm sure (although I have only tested one).. but they require being ordered online.

Questions to ask:
• Will I need a friend to set it up?
• Is the screen going to be big enough for me to see?
• Are the keys readable for ME?

If you prefer to buy a computer that you can see in a store..

There are two viewpoints about buying a computer:
Buy new to get the latest and greatest, or buy refurbished to spend the least.

If this is your FIRST computer, please consider a used, refurbished one. You may decide that this isn't for you, so you won't have spent a lot of money. You can get a good refurbished computer for less but only buy from a local company who will provide service. The small custom computer shops want your return business and referrals so they keep their prices down.

The many advantages of buying used are important:

Less cash spent

you are not forced to buy a new operating system

the service department is close to you, and repair times are quicker

you can speak directly to whoever will work on it!

When buying a computer the most important thing is to know what features you need, and don't need. Many seniors prefer laptops for simplicity, and ease in moving them. Others prefer the desktop model with a much larger, more visable screen.

Most Seniors use the computer for
• family contact (email)
• receiving photos
• browsing the web
• online banking, shopping and
• searching the Internet for consumer or hobby information.

Therefore, the budget should be spent on the features that are for those purposes.

(These technical standards are appropriate in 2010. Who knows in 2012 ?)

• A large monitor screen (for vision) 17" or larger
• A keyboard and mouse that you have tried out for the particular feel of them
• A reasonable size hard drive.. 320 Gb (Gigabytes), although I use much less.
• Enough working memory for Internet multi-tasking, and speed (and to allow for future changes) 2 Gb is plenty with XP, but you will need 3G to use Windows 7.
• Processor speed: faster the better (because we're impatient)! Over 2 Ghz is minimum.
• A combo CD writer/DVD player for ease of backups, photos and movies
• A color photo printer, simple and reliable

However, if you go to a big chain electronic store, the salesperson will show you the works! Computers that are more expensive because of other features can be avoided. Fast graphics cards, ultra-surround sound, High Definition Screens; These extras are required by "Gamers", whose addiction is as much as gambling! Ooops, maybe you are one!

The speed of HI-Speed cable or DSL Internet Service will help not only with impatience.. but it is necessary to be able to keep the phone line available at all times.

You can also expect to want a new computer in 3-4 years because.. once you start to enjoy using one, you'll never want to do without. It becomes a good friend and an indispensable tool. Fortunately, as you become more experienced, you will know which choices are appropriate for you.

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