How can I make computer useful and fun for my grandfather?

[samanthaone]

I just got my grandfather a new computer. How can I make that computer useful and fun?

[rojash]

errm, shouldn't you have worked that out BEFORE you got him a computer?

[daffy654]

What are his interests,is he ex-military? If so you could find him a list of sites with military history etc. and put them in his favourites.Any subjects that interest him you could do the same for. How about signing him up to evening classes for computer use,most areas do them now for the older generation so that they are able to find their way around the internet etc without getting into difficulties.

[mrs.chappie]

I make my own greetings cards on the computer, and often use a photograph which is relevant to the recipient of the card.

It's good to be able to personalise cards in this way, and the cards are always very well received!

[sandmaster]

As an over 60 - I suggest you introduce him to the internet and the www. Also friends reunited. You may need to be patient whilst he gets to grips with it but he should have fun.
Also he may like to start tracing the family history.

[parkesquay]

You might get him to have a look at the 'jackielawson' electronic card(cards for every occaision). I use this site especially at Xmas time. Not only great fun for the card openers/receivers but will give a good idea of the practical uses of the internet world .

You may also find that by making his favourite newspaper his 'homepage' he will not only save money by not buying the paper but this will probably more than pay for his internet subscription.

[snagged]

Get him to join here :-)

[monkeywiener]

just show him how to use AB silly!

[parkesquay]

I should probably have added such things as being able to use SKYPE to talk to anywhere in the world for free or being able to go away and check emails anywhere in the world(obviously assuming internet available.
There is probably a local course on computers(usually free)for Silver Surfers.