Third Age Living and Computer Technologies in old Age Learning

Introduction This essay gives an analysis of factors which have contributed to the successful achievement of the Third Age by certain countries as a life phase for their populations. The second segment of the essay synthesizes computer technologies that can be helpful to older adults’ learning.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Third Age Living and Computer Technologies in old Age Learning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Successful countries in achieving the Third Age Under normal circumstances, it is believed that life is divided into phases which people have to through from the time they are born. The occurrence of these stages appears to differ from one community to another based on a wide spectrum of factors. As a result, the onset of the higher phases in life i.e. third and fourth varies from country to country. For instance, it is believed that the Third Age of life begins at the onset of retirement a mong Britons. While this is true in some cases, there has to be a clear distinction between retirement age and the onset of this age in an individual’s life (Laslett, 1987). It therefore follows that different countries around the world have been successful in achieving the Third Age as a life phase for their populations. One of these countries is the Great Britain which has arguably been considered successful in achieving this phase of life for its people. This has been attributed to countless factors going beyond demographic and economic factors. Good health and appositive attitude towards ones lifespan is equally essential in allowing people to see and experience the Third Age of life. Although the Third Age appeared during the 1950s in Britain, its establishment began in 1980s, a trend that was witnessed in other Western countries like Italy, Japan, USA, Iceland, Australia and Scandinavia and other developed countries (Laslett, 1987). What are the major factors that have allowed this to happen? These countries have been successful in achieving the Third Age as a life phase for their populations as enhanced by several factors. Some of these factors include good nutrition, equitable distribution of resources, good social services and safe working conditions (Laslett, 1987).Advertising Looking for essay on computer science? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More High life expectancy has therefore contributed to most developed countries to successfully achieve this age for their population. It is important to acknowledge the fact that some historical events have also contributed to the success of these countries. A good example is industrialization which played a pivotal role in promoting the living standards of different populations. A country like England experienced modernization long before the onset of industrialization. Such trends have played a role in allowing inhabitants to achieve the Third Age . High national wealth has also contributed with these countries being able to have sufficient resources for aged and coming generations (Laslett, 1987). From a general perspective, Third Age Living has been achieved in the above mentioned countries as a result of intertwined factors ranging from social, political and economical. Describe four computer technologies that can be helpful to older adults’ learning Advancement in computer technology has significantly transformed the lives of both young and older generations. Of importance is the manner in which information is shared with a lot of ease from one person to the other. At the click of the mouse, one is able to access a wide range of information from any destination around the world. Businesses, relationships and education have all benefited from this technology which continues to transform countless lives around the world (Kim, 2008). These technologies have found momentous applications in learning institutions especia lly for the elderly. For instance, the internet is one the computer technology that has tremendously enhanced learning among elderly people. It allows constant connection and flow of information through emails and social networks as witnessed today. Old people also find it necessary for shopping and search for important information by using Google and Yahoo among other search engines (Kim, 2008). Screen magnification software is also important in learning institutions for elderly people and those with impaired eye sight.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Third Age Living and Computer Technologies in old Age Learning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It allows increasing of font sizes to allow learners to read without difficulty. Additionally, Synthetic Voice Output helps people with hearing problem. The last technology is the use of Braille Translators and Embossers. These allow blind people to learn computers and use them in their daily lives. Explain briefly how each one of these could be used to enhance learning for older adults These computer technologies have a major role in enhancing learning among ageing people. As mentioned above, the internet has arguably become the most used communication tool around the world with both young and old people appreciating its significance. From shopping to entertainment, old people have come to value the internet with most of them finding it paramount in their daily lives (Kim, 2008). Since internet augments communication, it can equally enhance learning among old people. Through the internet, instructors can share learning materials through emails and monitor their performance while at home. The internet also allows learners to contact their instructors as long as they are both connected. On the other hand, Screen Magnification Software allows the display of information on monitors in various font sizes and colors to alleviate vision loss. This allow s learners with limited vision to see and interpret information displayed on the screen. Synthetic Voice Output is a screen reading program which interprets text into audio speech for people with low vision (Kim, 2008). It can be helpful among aged computer learners experiencing eye problems. Lastly, Braille Translators and Embossers enable blind learners and tutors to use computers with the help of fingertips. It can be essential among elderly computer learners that are Braille proficient.Advertising Looking for essay on computer science? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Conclusion In general there are several factors which have enhanced the achievement of the Third Age in certain countries around the world. These factors are intertwined and include social, political and economical. On the other hand, computer technology plays a mega role in learning programs among ageing people. Through the integration of certain technologies, old people find it easier to learn computer skills. References Kim, Y. (2008). Reviewing and critiquing computer learning and usage among older adults. Educational Gerontology, 34, 709–735. Laslett, P. (1987). The emergence of the third age. Ageing and Society, 7, 133-160. This essay on Third Age Living and Computer Technologies in old Age Learning was written and submitted by user Bethany Puckett to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.