Be friends with the computer; it's a demand of the time you cannot ignore.

विद्या ददाति विनयं विनयाद्याति पात्रताम् । पात्रत्वाद्धनमाप्नोति धनाद्धर्मं ततः सुखम् ॥
(Knowledge creates discipline, discipline creates worthiness, worthiness creates wealth, wealth furthers good deeds which create immense joy in our life.)
It is a matter of great satisfaction that a good many AnandYatris have joined a short course in basic computer use being organised by Gurumantra, a leading institute in computer education in Pune. AnandYatra should particularly thank Prasanna Joshi and Ketaki Keskar, respectively, Director and faculty member of the institute, who have been taking great personal interest in conducting the coaching and look at the whole project as a social duty rather than as a revenue earning venture. I am really amazed to see the efforts and sincerity that went into the presentations which they specifically prepared for the AnandYatris. Both of them are lucid speakers and superbly put across their learning to the audience. In days to come I hope an increasing number of AnandYatris get stung by this computer bug and get to enjoy this avenue of learning and entertainment made available to them by the modern technology.



An AnandYatra computer class in progress at Gurumantra

The trend is worldwide. An increasing number of seniors are looking to get out and explore the world around them through internet and their personal computer. They may feel nervous as they begin but as they learn ahead, they get to know the infinite potential for learning, entertainment, communication and creativity that internet and computer offer to them.

Internet has been undoubtedly an extremely rich source of empowerment for the elderly. It provides a wealth of health resources and products to them and allows them to do research on their own pertaining their own health problems.

Internet allows a great sense of independence for the elderly. It is now possible for them to order virtually any product- medicine, groceries, gifts, books, plane tickets to name only a few- to be delivered to their doorstep within days. This definitely augments their sense of independence and self worth.

Further Internet helps cognitive development since the continued use of the brain later in life has been shown to slow or prevent senility and dementia. The use of the Internet involves the creative use of the mind through continued learning, research, writing letters, searching genealogy, reading the news, and online classes. These tools keep their mind active and nimble and probably slows down the degeneration brain cells.

Above all, particularly for the AnandYatris who have no spouse and probably a companion to share their mind, it is the best way to ward off loneliness and social isolation. They can use email for rejuvenating or reinforcing ties with relatives and friends, send digital photos, read daily news, manage their investments in shares and bonds, enjoy interacting with senior-related user groups and chat rooms. These resources allow an expansion of their social network, thus allowing them to feel more involved and engaged in the world and thus be able to counter bouts of depression that sometimes overtake them .

Hence, the computer coaching that we have initiated in cooperation with Gurumantra. I am sure it would bring moments of excitement and joy  in your life. But in the thick wood of Internet, never ever forget to meet your AnandYatri  friends and chat with them in person.