The digital divide It continues to be one of the great challenges for older people, but there are also stories that break all stereotypes. This is the case of Dean Simes, a 102-year-old Australian who dedicates his time to teaching computer science to other seniors in a club that he himself runs.
Far from retiring completely, Simes has become a reference in his community in Turramurra, on the north coast of Sydney, where he teaches classes on the use of computers, mobile phones and applications. Its purpose is none other than helping other seniors adapt to an increasingly digitalized environment. “The people who join this club have to coexist more and more with the computer world,” he explains in ABC Radio Sydney.
In his classes he teaches everything from the use of Windows 11 or Excel to the use of WhatsApp, aware that technology is already part of everyday life. “You can’t avoid having to use a computer,” he says, convinced that learning to use these tools is key to not being left behind.
From not having a computer to becoming a technological reference
Although it is a reference today, its relationship with technology began late. After a career in the mining industry, he did not have his own computer until he was 80 years old. That’s when he decided to learn from scratch. “When I received my first second-hand computer, I realized I had to ask people for help,” he recalls.
Far from giving up, he studied for three years and ended up getting involved in the Computer Pals club, of which he is today president. There he not only teaches, but also maintains the equipment and creates training materials, even using artificial intelligence to prepare his classes.
During one of them, I helped two students over 90 years old to configure WhatsApp. “When they show you how to do something, don’t just let them teach you. Do it yourself… and repeat it over and over again,” he advises, defending practice as the key to learning.
Learn technology so as not to be left behind
For many of his students, adapting is not easy. Vera Last, 94, admits that over time she has lost her ease: “Things seem to deteriorate in my limited mind, so I need all the help I can get.”
Even so, those who come to the club highlight its ability. “We all bowed to Dean’s computer skills,” says Bill Soper, the group’s secretary.
Digital literacy experts warn that learning to use technology not only makes daily life easier, but also protects against scams and misinformation. “Anyone who accesses the Internet needs to know not only the technical aspects, but also the risks,” says specialist Jocelyn Brewer.
In this sense, Simes also recommends caution with new tools, such as search engines with artificial intelligence: “You must be careful… to make sure your question is as precise as possible.”
Beyond his work as a trainer, Simes maintains a very active life, driving, going to the gym, playing bridge and participating in social activities. His dedication has even earned him recognition as Local Citizen of the Year in his community.
At 102 years old, he assures that he has no intention of stopping. “I don’t have much time to sit idly by,” he says.