My 89 year old father occasionally says that he wants to learn how to use a computer. I’m all for keeping your mind active as long as possible. Amazingly and gratefully, his mind is still sharp. But then as I skim my memory from about 10 years ago, I remember I purchased one for him. Let’s just say it became an item of clutter collecting dust. It has only been in the recent past that his outdated one has been quietly laid to rest. But I can’t really blame him. That computer was laden with several lines of wire and confusing software manuals. It was not very user-friendly.
And who was I to squawk about him never using it? I remember when I purchased my own desktop computer. It stayed in the box of purchase for over a year. For some reason I thought that if I touched it, everything would go awry. And I’m 35 years younger than my father!!! Once I got over that hurdle, there’s been no stopping me.
While reading the March 2010 AARP Bulletin I saw an advertisement that got my full and unwavering attention. On the back page was a large headline that said, “Finally — A Computer Designed for YOU, Not Your Grandchildren!” (pg. 44). With warped speed I read the article and went to their website seeking out more information.
The GO Computer is designed specifically with seniors in mind. It is powered by My Gait. At one time this computer was only available for use in Senior Centers and Retirement Living Communities. That has now changed. Now it is available for any one.
According to the article this computer comes to you ready to use. You simply have to plug it into an outlet and have a high-speed internet connection. It is appropriately called the Go Computer because when you want to use it, you simply press the Green GO button. That’s a novel idea.
Computer maintenance is provided remotely 24 hours per day from the company. It averages out to less than 75 cents per day. When I talked with a customer service representative she stated it was $19.95 monthly. This is a huge benefit because it eliminates the need for repairmen having to come to your home. In the rare instance where problems can not be solved, your computer will be replaced.
Added features according to this article is that it has a “big bright screen, one-touch magnification, large over-sized keyboard, built-in microprocessor and memory, no bulky tower, and top-rated for reliability”. (pg. 44). It is not available in stores.
When I went to the website of www.theGOcomputer.com, there were several short videos with extra information. They showed you how to use the computer with easy to understand steps. You will also see testimonials from satisfied customers.
My interest was really piqued by now so I decided to call the company itself at 1-877-792-7149. The customer service representative verified what I had seen in the AARP Bulletin and also information from the internet. Now while the article listed the price as $879, she said currently they were running a special on it for $829.
With this computer you have the capacity to send and receive e-mails, surf the internet and play games online. Couldn’t you just see the grandparents doting over the latest picture of their grandchild?
While I realize that the price is by no means cheap, especially for a person living on a limited income in many cases, it might be a wise investment for those who could afford it. If an older person still wants to be productive while enjoying the benefits that computers offer but without the stress, it might be money well spent.
This computer is distributed by First Street for Boomers and Beyond at 1998 Ruffin Mill Rd. in Colonial Height, VA 23834.
Perhaps this might be something that my father would actually use. Hmmm!! I was thinking of something for his upcoming 90th birthday. On second thought, I’d have to be REALLY convinced he would actually use it and not be just another passing fancy.
