Introducing…The Age Hackers

Back in November last year, we ran a survey asking GrownUps readers about their use of and feelings about technology. At the end of the survey we asked who was interested in being involved in a programme called the Age Hackers, which aimed to change perceptions about older New Zealanders and their ability to master new technology. We were blown away by the response. More than 1,600 of you filled out the survey, and hundreds of people put their hands up to be part of the Age Hackers programme. The quality of responses we received was superb, and so it has taken us a lot of time, and some agonising, to narrow the many volunteers down to the final five.

Have a look at one of Age Hackers on Breakfast TV here.

You’ll hear a lot more from the five Age Hackers in the coming weeks as they publish their tips, tricks and thoughts on technology. Today, however, we wanted to introduce each one so you know a bit about who you’re hearing from.

Carol Bron, Rangitikei
Carol has long been a tech enthusiast. She’s the one who makes decisions about what technology to buy in her family, and used online and digital technologies extensively at work before she retired.

Now Carol uses her smartphone to listen to music and tracks her health and fitness using a Fitbit and through smartphone apps. Her tablet travels with her when away from home so she can keep in touch with emails, and she regularly reads what five-year-old granddaughter is up to at school via the class blog.

As an Age Hacker, Carol wants to show New Zealand you are never too old to learn something new, by posting on the Age Hackers page about how technology is making a difference in her own life – particularly in the area of health and fitness.

Cherry Bewley, Bay of Plenty
Cherry uses online applications and technology for work as well as for fun. Together she and her husband run a lawn mowing and maintenance business in Bay of Plenty, and online accounting software has helped Cherry transform how efficiently she can manage the accounting and admin side of the business.

A keen photographer, Cherry is now experimenting with using her smartphone as a camera and is looking forward to reviewing some of the many photography applications for the Age Hackers page.

Cherry says she now couldn’t imagine life without the internet. As an Age Hacker, she’s keen to show others the many ways technology can help them get the most out of their free time – whether they’re interested in photography, art, movies or something completely different.

Alex Sharp, Auckland
Alex believes in diving in and experimenting with technology. He also believes you don’t need to buy lots of flash new gadgets to feel the benefits of technology, as often the simplest things make the most difference in our lives.

During the course of his career working in financial services, Alex always promoted the use of technology as a tool for efficiency and professionalism. This has continued with his busy life in retirement as he promotes the use of technology to family and friends. He and his wife, Robyn, use technology extensively at home and when travelling – sharing images and tales of their travels with family via a blog.

Alex thinks most people are more open to learning about the practical benefits of technology – the “this is how you will use it” manner – rather than details about technical devices and their features. As an Age Hacker he wants to help raise awareness of these practical benefits amongst people who may not currently feel confident diving in and using technology.

Kaye Lally, Taranaki
Kaye Lally dwells in the semi-rural South Taranaki town of Normanby, with husband Dennis. Recently retired from managing the public library in Hawera she is enjoying no longer getting up to an alarm – but loves exploring all the other ways her iPhone and other digital devices can help her have fun and grow in this new phase of her life.

Kaye particularly appreciates the way the internet means she can live in Taranaki but be constantly connected to the world. As an Age Hacker she wants to demystify technology, and show how it fits seamlessly into daily activities and can help people get the most out of their lives – particularly in retirement.