Web Isn’T Just For The Young
Move over, junior. Seniors are the fastest-growing users of the Internet and are spending more time online than any other group.
So says Zona Research Inc., a leading resource for information on technology and Internet trends.
The company reported earlier this year that seniors outspent other age groups online at a ratio of 3-to-1 during the 1998-99 holiday season.
Still, elders face hurdles as they attempt to join the Information Age. Recent research for Microsoft Corp. found that while about half of Americans own computers, slightly less than one-quarter of seniors (ages 60 and older) own and use computers.
The Microsoft study also disclosed that:
* Among seniors who use computers, 34 percent use them for work-related projects and correspondence, 21 percent for surfing the Internet and 15 percent for games and entertainment.
* 75 percent agree computer skills are important for enhanced or continued employability.
Young or old, here are a few new or interesting Web sites to check out:
Curiosity satisfied: Anyone with youngsters knows how often they can stump mom and dad with questions ranging from what causes an “ice cream headache?” (a dilation of blood vessels in the brain) to whether a camel’s hump holds water? (no, it’s comprised of fat).
For answers, turn to a Web site that’s both entertaining and educational. And while it can help you satisfy the kids’ curiosity on occasion, it’s also a good resource for information on hundreds of topics that you may want to explore.
http://www.howstuffworks.com
For sale by owner: Thinking of bypassing real estate agents and their hefty commissions and selling your own home?
This site addresses nagging questions, such as how to set a fair selling price and to create a good first impression.
http://www.audrie.com
Pickin’ on Bill: As the world’s biggest software company, Microsoft Corp. is fair game for critics large and small.
So it’s not surprising that the software giant is the target of a new book full of one-liners and other barbs. The Web site is largely a sales tool, but those who don’t want to buy the book can still check out a joke a week — at Microsoft’s expense.
http://www.msjokebook.com