How to Convince Elders to Buy Technology

This elder is clueless!
This elder is clueless!

Have a stubborn old grandma who refuses to get a computer? Is your mother still using cassette tapes, or worse: 8-tracks?!? Then this is the 'How To' for you.

[edit] Steps

  1. Know something about the technology you want to teach an elder about first. You can't explain something if you don't know anything about it yourself.
  2. Think about what you're going to talk about. Are you trying to get Aunt Martha to buy an iPod instead of using a record player? Do you want your grandpa to do his banking online? It is best to stick with a specific topic.
  3. Take a deep breath. You'll need to talk and explain alot.
  4. Dive right in. Start making random agruments about how much better something would be. Example: "A computer would be so much better than your old typewriter!" Then, back up your argument with details. "There is no more need for whiteout. Just press backspace!"
  5. Repeat step 4 with new arguments and details until you are asked a question by the elder.
  6. When the elder starts asking questions, answer them truthfully and make it sound very positive. Example: Elder's Question - "Does this computer take ink ribbons?" Answer - "No!"
  7. If the elder starts making excuses relating to their lack of knowledge, tell them that's what you are there for. By convincing a senior to use technology, you are automatically their tech support.
  8. If the elder makes financial excuses, don't be afraid to throw your money around. You obviously care about this person enough to try and update their lifestyle, so offer to purchase their 'computter.'
  9. When and if you convince them, act on it right away. Purchase the computer or other device right away. Even if you aren't the one paying, pick the device up for them. Set it up in their homes, too. Give them basic instructions and leave them with a phone number to call to reach you if they need help. Good luck!


[edit] Tips

  • If you have brothers, sisters, or other relations that are aware of the elder you are convincing, don't be afraid to ask them to pitch in with financial expenses.
  • Elders don't like change. It may take several of these arguments on several different days before they give in.
  • Often times, elders will be very appreciative and wonder why they didn't update their ways themselves.


[edit] Warnings

  • If your elder is exteremly set on not having this device or technological update after several arguments, you may not want to get it for them. It'd be a shame if they never used the expensive device.


[edit] Things You'll Need

  • Time
  • Patience
  • Money


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Categories:Grandparents

Authors

Matt, Brigitta M., Tom Viren, Sondra C, Dave Crosby, Eric Wester, Nicole Willson
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,049 times.

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