Computers and Technology Computers have firmly established themselves as a major and important part of the world we live in. Whether it's totalling up the cost of your groceries, dispensing money at the cash machine or changing traffic lights from red to green, computers make it all happen. Only a few years ago, computers were huge, expensive and impractical machines, capable of performing only a limited number of tasks. Indeed, the chairman and founder of one of the world leaders in computer development is quoted as saying: "There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home..."

Of course, he could not have been more wrong and with the creation of the personal computer, or PC, there were plenty of reasons why people would want to own a computer. With today's PCs the sky really is the limit and you can now easily communicate with people from all four corners of the globe, find information on practically any subject using the internet, go shopping without leaving the comfort of your home, store and edit countless photographs of your family and friends and much much more besides.

For many, especially older people, using a computer for the first time can be a daunting experience: strange blinking lights and whirring noises; wires here and buttons there. Feeling this way is completely normal and by learning only a small amount about computers and what they can do you'll soon have the digital world at your feet!

Follow the links below to download useful computer guides about various subjects, hear other older people talk about their experience with computers or find a taster session in your area.

	Your Stories Click here to hear older people telling their stories about getting to grips with computers.
	Find a Computer Course Click here to find out more about computer taster sessions / training courses in your area.
	Computer Guides Click here to download step-by-step guides on many aspects of computing including the internet, emails, security and more.
	Age Concern Digital Inclusion Network Interested in running computer courses for older people? Click here to find out how the Digital Inclusion Network could make it happen.