Citation

Dottavio D, Mihalik BJ. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1986; 8(1): 5-13.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1986, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v08n01_02

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Many claims are being made about the influence of personal computers on people's lives. Some visionaries even suggest that in the future, personal computers will be as common in homes and businesses as televisions and telephones are today. However, before one can become a computer user, he or she must acquire an understanding of some of the basic computer concepts so as to make educated decisions regarding the choice and use of a personal computer. Such questions as what makes computers personal, what are the pieces of a personal computer, what kinds of personal computer storage devices exist, what kind of.printer docs one need. what amount and type of computer memory is needed, and what programming skills are needed are important to answer before stepping into the personal computer world. Other questions of equal value include how difficult are they to operate, are all computers compatible with other personal computers, what are the most common uses of a personal computer, how does one get a personal computer repaired, what are the hidden costs of owning a personal computer, and when does a computer become obsolete. This article explores these issues in a straightforward, non-technical manner and serves as the introductory point into the uses of a personal computer for activity providers for the aging.