Susan Evans has been around computers since the 1980s — ever since she discovered its word-processing functions. These days, she uses the Internet regularly — for genealogy research, checking out prescriptions and learning about certain medical conditions. She e-mails her aunt and uncle, both in their 80s, to keep the family in touch.

But unlike Evans, many retirees are hesitant to touch the computer, usually afraid to break it. “As we get older, technology becomes more ominous — mystifying and frightening — to many of us. Damaging an expensive piece of equipment is a major concern,” she said. “I’m an Infotracker instructor for our regional library, and one of the things I say most often is, ‘You can’t damage the computer from the keyboard.’”

Susan and her husband, Ed, are members of a group called Kitsap Computing Seniors, which helps people learn about computers and keep up with ever-changing technology. The name is a little deceiving — the group actually welcomes members of any age, and is considering changing its name to make it more inclusive.

Back when the group was founded in 1992, the goal was to make sure seniors were not left behind in the Information Age. “The group started so grandparents can keep up with their grandkids,” KCS President Bob Hibbits said. “Many people who are retiring now have been exposed to computers through their jobs but that wasn’t the case in the ‘90s.”

Even with that exposure, many older adults either don’t know how to use a computer or refuse to go on the Internet — missing out on a tremendous world of opportunities.

“It’s no different than the fear of any unknown,” said Don Lawrence, who moved to Silverdale a few years ago from Silicone Valley and joined KCS shortly after to share what he knows with others and keep learning himself.

“Sometimes the industry itself doesn’t do a very good job explaining how computers work…Let’s face it, in the early ‘80s when the PC was just coming out, you bought a computer from a business that held your hand,” he said. “Now you can even buy it at Wal-Mart. Then you have to use the phone to get help.”

Although kids these days learn computers as early as age three, and by their teens know more about them than most parents, learning from grandchildren or even adult children is not the best way to go.

“It’s easier to learn from your peers than your grandchildren,” Lawrence said. And while 10 years ago KCS was among the few places that geared classes to older adults, now they are available at some senior centers and community colleges.

Like learning anything new, at any age, it takes a little patience, a little curiosity, and a little bravery. “It’s a matter of being open to new ideas, having a high tolerance for frustration, willingness to learn by trial and error, and determination not to let a ‘dumb’ machine get the best of one,” Evans said.

(Editor’s Note: To find out more about the Kitsap Computing Seniors, see www.ffogynews.org or call (360) 698-5384.).