The Winkler Senior Centre is kicking off a new series this month focused on helping older adults navigate the increasingly complex world of online safety. The five-part computer security course begins May 21 and is designed to equip seniors with the tools they need to recognize scams and use technology with confidence.
"It's a series of senior-focused videos on security training," said Cathleen Bergen, the centre’s Services for Seniors Resource Coordinator. "Each session will be one or a few videos about different things in regard to computer security."
The program runs weekly, starting May 21, with each session touching on different aspects of online safety.
Why now?
This is the first time the centre has offered programming focused specifically on digital security. Bergen said it was something she felt was needed, given the types of questions she hears from the seniors she supports.
"In my job I get asked quite often to help the older adults with their telephone, their iPads... Is this email valid? What about this thing that's popping up?"
Bergen came across the training materials online and was impressed. “The language isn’t complicated. The speed is good and there are good handouts for each one of them.”
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Signing up
While the centre is geared toward people aged 55 and over, Bergen says their tech sessions have historically drawn a broad mix.
"I remember the last time we did them, which was quite a few years ago, I had people who were younger seniors, and then I had a lady who was well in her 90s when she joined us."
Anyone interested in signing up for the security sessions can contact Bergen directly by calling 204-325-8964, emailing cathleen@winklerseniorcentre.com, or visiting the Senior Centre website.