Computers and smart screens promise so much, often with the touch of a finger. But it's not always easy to navigate for everyone.
The Tech Savvy Seniors program provides low-cost or free training for seniors so they can use technology like computers, tablets and smartphones.
The program has just received an extra $2 million dollars in funding from the NSW government.
The lessons take place in libraries and community colleges and the NSW program has been so successful there are plans to roll it out nationally.
"Sometimes I just send an email to my friends but I want to learn more about services and the internet."
Peter Blasina, also known as the Gadget Guy, helps seniors at the library classes.
"The biggest problem seniors have is that often they're just scared to immerse themselves in the technology," he said.
"They haven't got the logic that a younger generation has that allows them to sit down at any piece of technology and work it."
The program is also being expanded to be taught in seven languages. The tech lessons will now be available in Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Arabic, Farsi, Hindi and Dari in select libraries across the state.
It's hoped the revamped program will bridge the social isolation that can occur when English isn’t a first language.
"It allows them to engage with their families and friends overseas," said Caroline Romeo from the NSW Ethnic Communities Council.
"I think [they also connect] in the different suburbs of Sydney so they can Skype or Facetime."
Hanh Nguyen is from Sydney’s Vietnamese community.
"Sometimes I just send an email to my friends but I want to learn more about services and the internet," he said.
"It's important to have non-English speaking background people knowing about technology."
The program relies on eager volunteers and staff who are a unique combination of patient, multilingual and tech-savvy.
Bibi Goul Mossavi is a young volunteer who teaches classes in Dari.
"It does require patience but sometimes it’s also very innocent and funny," she said.
"The first thing is to help them get over the fear of the technology.
"Don’t be afraid just come in and have a go."
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