TORONTO — When cousins, Ami Moyal, 20, and Moshe Elmaleh, 21, were approached by their grandmother to help her with her computer, the pair – who both have backgrounds in computers – realized that older people were having great difficult learning how to use computers and other new technology.
After helping their grandmother, they decided that they would create a study plan specifically for seniors. They did a great deal of research and found that there was nothing comparable being offered for seniors.
“We formed a company, The Gadget Guides, and have already expanded to present private classes, small groups and sessions at senior residences,” Moyal said.
Their motto is “Connecting today’s seniors with tomorrow’s technology.”
Moyal told The CJN that many seniors told them that they wanted to keep in touch with their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren around the world using the Internet. But the seniors also expressed frustration when learning to use the technology and excitement when they master the devices.
“The computer bridges the gap between the generations with programs like Skype, Facetime and Messenger,” Elmaleh said. “And senior citizens are very excited when they discover the world of the Internet, and some are learning how to explore cyberspace.”
Elmaleh graduated from the Anne and Max Tanenbaum Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto, studied at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv and graduated from a web development program at Seneca College.
Moyal also studied at Bar-Ilan, as well as the University of Toronto and web development at Seneca College.
Moyal attributes his skill to his mother, who built an online graphic design company. “Most importantly, I’ve always been taught that when you possess any skill, teaching is not a choice, but rather a duty,” he said.
The pair’s classes are held at a facility at Dufferin Street and Steeles Avenue, or at a client’s chosen location. A group of friends can also form a class in one of their facilities.
In the future, Moyal and Elmaleh are planning to have their own place where private individuals and groups can come for lessons and help.
“Many seniors tell us that once we show them how to use the technology in the classes, they find that it’s quite simple,” notes Moyal. “We also supply phone support, which is very helpful when they face a problem.”
The workshops, held mostly at seniors’ residences, are interactive. At present, they hold classes at Chartwell Retirement Residences and the Four Elms Retirement Residence.
They generally use Apple products, including, iPads, iPhones and Macbooks.
“We are now exploring expanding our programs to include Android [the smartphone operating system],” Elmaleh said. “And we are exploring syndicating our method of teaching so that seniors can access classes anywhere.”
For more information, email [email protected] or call 416-305-4192.