Posted 10/15/2009

The FloH Club: Tech Support for Older Adults

Yay!

By Laurie Orlov

You know and I know that all older adults do not love and relate to their computers. And their computers are not lovable. I will spare you a rant this time and not count the ways. For seniors who are uncomfortable with their computers, many imperfect alternatives are available to “help.”

  • Their adult children can help them.
  • They can attend a training class at their local college or senior center.
  • They can try an online support service like CrossLoop, which isn’t focused on older adults.
  • They can call the company that sold them the product.
  • They can buy the GO Computer, which offers telephone support.

Now there is another option—the FloH Club—started by 75-year-old Florence Henderson, best known as the TV mom on The Brady Bunch. Check out Ms. Henderson describing it in this video from The Today Show.

On September 23, using her own experience with technology demystification, she launched a fee-based tech support service (not a charitable foundation) to help people with their computers. Plans are $249.99 for a year or $24.99 per month for 6 months to do the following (as stated on the site):

  • Use email, instant messaging, and videoconferencing with Skype or Facebook
  • Set up a device such as a printer, scanner, digital camera, or MP3 player to work with your computer
  • Tune up your system so it performs at its best
  • Set up a home network
  • Purchase airline tickets, gifts, books, or prescriptions safely over the Internet
  • Check financial news and stock performance online

Best Buy's Geek Squad is a costly visit, and worse, someone is in your house, which may not be so appealing. They also do what CrossLoop does and access your computer remotely—not very conversational for folks who may be intimidated by the computer and the real nightmare, the software.

So let's give a cheer for a 75-year-old entrepreneur starting a business to help people get comfortable with their computers! We want her to succeed!

Thoughts and experiences welcome!

By Laurie Orlov
Aging in Place Technology Watch Blog

[Originally posted October 6, 2009, at Laurie's Aging in Place Technology Watch Web site.]

Contact our Silver Advisors ButtonOur Silver Advisors™ are professional geriatric care managers and other experts who provide phone consultations on preventing falls, navigating Medicare, evaluating senior driving challenges, and other issues baby boomers must resolve while caring for an aging loved one. Silver Advisors clarify concerns, suggest a plan of action, help prioritize next steps, and furnish personalized written plans and recommendations. All callers receive a complimentary 15-minute consultation.


What We Do
Silver Planet® helps baby boomers guide their parents to age in place by providing services and products related to aging at home and housing options.