SOUTH WAIRARAPA REBUS CLUB

At our September meeting the Guest Speaker, Sarah Wright from Digital Seniors, asked us why our grandchildren should have all the fun. Supported by videos of typical Zoom sessions, and linking directly with two of her volunteers who contributed to her presentation, she demonstrated how Digital Seniors are encouraging seniors, like us, to get familiar with recent advances in technology.     

Digital Seniors was born in early 2018 from research into the “digital inclusion problem” in NZ which showed that there were significant numbers of people in the 65+ age group who were missing out. They had significant issues of access to and skills with the unfamiliar new technology, and didn’t trust it. There were also many who did not appreciate the potential of the new technology to impact positively on their lives. 

Over the lockdown there was a real need for seniors to connect, particularly those living alone, to have a laugh and a chat with others, so Digital Seniors created “virtual hubs” via Zoom. These hubs proved to be an acceptable and exciting way for seniors to connect with others across New Zealand.  Their online hubs are spaces where seniors can meet new people, play games and share their hobbies and interests with each other.

Digital Seniors run popular drop-in learning hubs across the Wairarapa where seniors receive free one-on-one help with a volunteer coach. Their Martinborough Hub meets at St Andrews Church, Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30am and in Featherston at the Fire Station, Thursdays, 1:30 – 3:30pm

Zoom hubs for seniors are run every Thursday from 11:00 – 12 noon. The link is <https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4806185206>.  If seniors need help learning how to use Zoom, or have other problems with the new technology, drop into one of the hubs or call 0800 373 646. 

As the Club Speaker, new member Kay Paget told the story of her life leading to her present occupation as an artist and offered a follow up session at a later meeting.

The South Wairarapa Rebus Club meets in the South Wairarapa Working Men’s Club on the fourth Friday morning of each month and organises an outing in those months with a fifth Friday. Anyone in the retired age group who may be interested in SW Rebus Club is welcome to come along to a meeting as a visitor.  Please contact David Woodhams 306 8319.