Welcome to the December 2004 Seniors Digest

by Timmie Faghin

The computer revolution has reshaped the way we work, play and go about our daily lives. The Internet brings the world into our homes while allowing us to peer into more of the world than we ever could have imagined. And seniors, it turns out, are increasingly enthusiastic computer users.

Seattle is one of the most "wired" cities in the world, so it's no surprise that computer programs for seniors are going strong in our area. In this issue of Seniors Digest, read about an innovative program where senior volunteers help other seniors learn computer basics. These volunteers are committed to helping others cross "the digital divide."

Of course, one of the first things you find out when you jump into the Internet is that there's a lot of information out there! See this month's article "Healthcare Information on the Web: How Reliable?" for a quick tutorial on how you can avoid bad even dangerous advice on the Web. Another article, "Seniors and Computers: a Natural Combination," talks about how technology makes it easy to stay in touch even if you are home recovering from hip surgery, as I am right now. (More about my experience next month!)

More computer news....

• Electronic Caregiver Connections from Senior Services of Seattle-King County
• "Telehealth" at the VA
• "Computer Lingo" Wordfind puzzle

And if you're already stressing out over the holiday season, we offer some "Holiday Stress-Busting" tips!

All of us at Seniors Digest wish you and your family a safe, joyful holiday season. No matter what your tradition, we hope December will provide time for reflection about the things that are most important to you.

For more information....

"Links You Can Use" will lead you to further information about the topics of the month, as well as to contact information for accessing resources in the area, and a few fun links, as well.

For national online resources, be sure to check out our companion website, SeniorsDigest.org, where you'll find quick, free access to a wide array of local and national websites for older adults and their families.

We hope you will refer to our electronic pages often to obtain advice, to learn of new and exciting services, and to offer us your constructive feedback.  

Read Seniors Digest and tell us what you think. We are here to help.