Philadelphia’s WPVI-TV News featured Eastern PA Conference Lay Leader William Thompson in a recent story about his decades-long business of teaching basic computer skills to seniors. It’s part of the ABC station’s series “The Art of Aging.”
“Love them or hate them, computers are part of life regardless of our age,” begins the story about the service he provides to the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA).
Twice a week, upstairs at the Firehouse Active Adult Center on Haverford Avenue in West Philadelphia, Bill Thompson helps seniors explore technology. “He works slowly, building their knowledge, and just as importantly, their confidence,” says newscaster Tamala Edwards’ report. In fact, he has taught everyone from kids to corporate CEO’s how to master their machines.
Computer and tech classes are among the most popular offerings at PCA centers, because seniors need those skills for email, telehealth, monitoring their Medicare, Social Security, and medical benefits. Some seniors are also starting new careers.
And with the surge in mailbox thefts, paying bills online is more secure than putting a letter in a mailbox, even at a post office. The Firehouse Center’s director says students also learn about avoiding fraud and scams.