Client Story: Getting Confident with IT

Joan, Islington Carers Hub, 75 years old

Getting onto Zoom for the first time

Carmen, Activities Co-ordinator, helped me get onto Zoom.  I managed it even though it was a bit of a struggle for me.  Volunteer, David, was then able to help me to get onto the first online Reminiscence session.  We talked about cooking.  The session was quite lovely and I enjoyed it.  I couldn’t quite see the tutor’s face all the time, but I could hear everything. Volunteer, David, did a good job to get me on.  It was really good help and I think he was really satisfied with how I picked it up. 

Joining in Reminiscence

We were talking about what food we like and I recognised a lady’s voice I know from a long way back and I saw her on Zoom.  We all discussed cake and the 60s and 70s.  What year was good for us and what year was not so good for us.  It was very entertaining and I enjoyed the morning.

Joining in a Quiz during Carers Week

I also tried an online quiz which was put on by a company, Okta, I care for my son and I had him sitting in with me.  We answered a few questions and won a voucher for £20.  I looked online to find something I could buy with this and Carmen helped me get 3 tins of coffee which was quite nice.

Caring for my son

I’ve been caring for my son for a long time.  I joined Islington Carers Hub quite a while ago doing different activities and have had support from them in the past.

How I got to start using a smart phone

I knew Yvonne from Carers Hub as she ran the support group.  One day she suggested that we go to a group to learn how to use a smart phone, laptop or tablet.  They took the group through what you can do using a smart phone – finding places, finding transport.  It takes a bit longer when you’re older.  But it was really good and I went out and got a phone.  Not an expensive one, just one that I can use for what I want.

What do I use my phone for now?

I used my phone to join the online groups.  I take pictures of my little garden and videos too. I love my plants and what I plant. It makes me feel happy and good in myself.  I use Whataspp to keep in touch with people and send pictures.  I read newsletters from people like Age UK and Carers Hub. I don’t do shopping on my phone because I’m scared to let myself go with spending.  I stay with what I feel comfortable doing.

Do I have a message for others?

So many people have a phone and don’t know how to do certain things.  It’s important to get these people to do a bit more, especially if people have time on their hands.  Just like me!

What will I do next?

I would love a series of classes to practice using the technology.  I understand from Carmen that Age UK has got some classes coming up.

Indeed there are, please see details of our Tech Break course, starting Thursday 15th October: https://ageukislington.microsoftcrmportals.com/tech/