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Woodbridge Opens Senior Citizen Computing Center |
WHAT: Woodbridge Opens Senior Citizen Computing Center
WHEN: Thursday, May 25, 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: Woodbridge Health Center, George Frederick Plaza, Woodbridge
WHO: ▪ Woodbridge Mayor Frank G. Pelzman
▪ Woodbridge Health Director Dennis Green
▪ Woodbridge IS Director Michael Esolda
▪ Division on Aging Director Irene Allan
INFO: Woodbridge Health Center (732) 855-0600 ext. 5023
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WOODBRIDGE – Mayor Frank G. Pelzman will announce the opening of a new Senior Citizen Computer Center at the Woodbridge Health Center on Thursday, May 25 at 3 p.m.
The Center is a mobile station of five wireless laptop computers earmarked for use by Township seniors. The computers’ web browsers have been pre-set with more than 60 senior-geared sites providing information on employment, health, government and community resources. Call (732) 855-0600 ext. 5023 for information.
“This Center is an important addition to the Township’s already extensive array of senior services,” says Mayor Pelzman. “ Woodbridge has one of the largest and most active senior populations in New Jersey, and this will enhance their independence and ability to contribute to the community.”
Studies show that c omputer use by senior citizens is on the rise in the U.S., with a SeniorNet study estimating computer use among the elderly has grown by 15% each year since 1990.
“Seniors are far from technophobic,” says Woodbridge Township Information Services Director Michael Esolda, who developed the Center. “ They use computers to keep in touch with family, obtain medical information and stay on top of news pertinent to their daily lives. With its 24-hour access, the Internet is never closed.”
Woodbridge Township Health Director Dennis Green adds that other studies have indicated seniors who regularly use computers appear to have fewer depressive symptoms than those older adults not so cyber-connected. “The access to unlimited sources of information is very empowering for seniors,” he says. “The Center will be an important part of our outreach programming, especially in training our volunteers.”