Activating idle minds: Turning to technology at 77

When it comes to their computers, it seems most people desire speed, the latest versions and devices that fit comfortably in their hands.

The Pardos simply want to understand how a mouse works.

At age 77, Moises and Delia Pardo decided it was time to take on the computer. A few weeks ago was the first time the pair had attempted the challenge. They signed up to take intro to computer lessons once a week at the Oak Harbor library.

“It’s a matter of activating an idle mind,” Moises Pardo said. “After this long, you’re forced to update.”

The Pardos moved from the Philippines to Buffalo, N.Y., in 1996 and came to Whidbey seven years ago to be near their son who was stationed in Oak Harbor.

Now that their son has been deployed to Japan and one of their other sons to New Zealand, the couple decided learning to e-mail and video chat was a must.

“Using the phone is not cheap,” Moises Pardo said. And his wife added, “We just want to communicate with our children.”

Librarian Anne Murphy has been instructing the Pardos on how to navigate using the mouse, highlight text and copy and paste words. She said eventually she hopes to set them up with e-mail accounts.

“They’re doing great,” Murphy said.

Moises Pardo said although it’s difficult, having a patient teacher like Murphy keeps him coming back.

“She smiles a lot,” he said. “The approach is motivating.”

Moises and Delia Pardo have been married for 50 years and work to keep active. He said the most important thing is to maintain good health, and he prays for it often.

“They’re very friendly and outgoing,” library manager Mary Campbell said. “They just seem like people who want to set an example for other seniors.”

For about two years the library has been offering

morning sessions for community members to help them get acquainted with different technologies, electronics and websites.

People just need to sign up with a librarian and specify their need. For information, call 675-5111.

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