Seniors Are Eager to Learn
by Russ Mancl
You're never too old to learn and the proof can be found in the Computer Lab at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill, WI. "This past year we recycled some of our computers in administration and set up a computer lab for our residents," Sister Peggy Jackelen, SCSC, administrator at the assisted living center said. "With the patient assistance and guidance of our Recreational Therapist, Matt Johnson, residents who have never used a computer before are now sending e-mails to their families. What a pleasure it is to witness their delight in this accomplishment."
Virginia Reynolds (L) visits with Sister Peggy Jackelen, Bell Tower Residence Administrator.
Matt Johnson working with residents Chet Blumenstein and Sister Mary D Schmidt in the Computer Lab.
During a recent visit to the Computer Lab I found resident Chet Blumenstein looking for information on how presidential delegates were selected. Cathleen Schmalz, a Wausau native who has lived at the facility for the past ten years, was checking e-mails. According to Matt Johnson, she is working on her typing skills with free typing games. In addition, Johnson said residents watch everything from movie clips to news.
Cathleen Schmalz
Sister Mary D. Schmidt, SCSC, frequents www.freerice.com. Visitors to this site are presented with a word and four definitions. If a user selects the correct definition, the site will donate 20 grains of rice through the United Nations. It's serving two purposes, keeping the mind active and helping the hungry.
Sister Mary D Schmidt working on the computer.
Residents meet with Johnson in the lab or, if they have their own computer, he will work one-on-one with them in their room. "Learning the mouse was the hardest for residents. But within one or two classes, I would say people learned the basics on the computer. Learning the Internet takes a little longer, but they learn quickly," Johnson said.
Sister Mary D Schmidt playing with the Nintendo Wii at Bell Tower.
Matt assists residents in using the Webcam to communicate with relatives in other parts of the country. A Webcam is a small camera with a built-in microphone that will display and let you hear your loved one on the monitor or screen. Matt is always in need of interested volunteers who could assist residents in the use of the Webcam. Interested persons who wish to volunteer their services may contact Matt at (715) 536-5575, or mjohnson@belltowerresidence.org.
Matt Johnson instructing participants how to play the game.
But it doesn't stop in the Computer Lab. Recently Central Wisconsin Contractors Association donated Nintendo Wii to Bell Tower. This game system gets residents playing a virtual sport they long ago stopped playing for real. "We hope to get residents with physical limitations, some of whom are in wheelchairs, involved," states Johnson. "Some of the games, such as bowling, only require upper-body motions. This will open up a whole new world of participation in activities that have otherwise been denied to those individuals dealing with the challenges of aging."
Elouise Reich taking aim at the target.
Bell Tower Residence, sponsored by the Holy Cross Sisters, is a not-for-profit, faith-based, assisted living community that promotes the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of each resident in a safe, caring environment. For more information call (715) 536-5575.