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IntroductionIntroduction
Have you ever stopped to think about the role of technology in your life? There's no doubt that today's younger generations will benefit from current and future technological advances, but today's older generations are already seeing the biggest lifestyle improvements ever. We are living longer, more active lives than our parents and grandparents. Our ancestors went from youth to middle age to old age. We, with a new mentality and the help of technology, have added an entire epoch to our livesthe Great Age!
Everyone knows that the term baby boomer refers to individuals who were born after World War II. This group is generally recognized as encompassing people who were born between 1946 and 1964. The boomers' older siblings don't have a moniker associated with their generation, but along with the boomers, they are often referred to as zoomers because they are not ready to be relegated to a rocking chair. Boomers and zoomers are zooming into the latter part of their lives, zooming into technology, and zooming into everything they do. They are vibrant individuals who deal enthusiastically with all aspects of their lives. They are ready to enjoy the Great Age that they have created.
About Sandy Berger's Great Age Series
It's about time that someone addressed the issues that face those of us who did not grow up with computers. We are not technologically impaired. We are not dummies. And we are not about to be overlooked.
It's just that we didn't learn about computers in school, so we sometimes approach the new-fangled digital world with a bit of trepidation. Can someone please tell us just what we need to know without the complicated mumbo-jumbo?
That is exactly what this series does. It is explicitly geared for the needs and wants of baby boomers and beyond. It tells you just what you need to knowno more and no less. It uses the winning formula of need-to-know information along with easy-to-understand explanations.
Over the past decade, I have helped many boomers and their older siblings learn how to use computers and technology to enhance and improve their lives. I understand the needs and wants of this generation. After all, I am enjoying the Great Age myself. I am anxious to help guide you into the world of technology where the Great Age is full of enjoyment and anticipation.
Gadgets and Gizmos
These are not your grandfather's gadgets. Neither are they your grandchildren's gadgets. These are chosen just for you. As we age, we realize that the path to better living is through technology. Computers and technology now affect every aspect of our lives. They have extended our longevity, improved our health, made travel easier, and even made it easier to have fun.
Yet technology is moving so quickly that it is difficult for the average person to keep up with all the useful products that currently are available. Did you know that there is a nondrug product to lower blood pressure? A mouse to alleviate hand and wrist strain? A light to help you see more clearly? A camera for shaky hands? A wheelchair that climbs stairs? All these products are discussed in this book. I've scoured the planet to fill Sandy Berger's Great Age Guide to Gadgets and Gizmos with unique products that are useful and fun. These gadgets and gizmos put you on the cutting edge while making sure you are far from the bleeding edge.
You can use this book as a purchasing guide, but you don't have to. You can simply use it to learn about the many gadgets and gizmos that are currently available to you. From these products, you also get a glimpse of what technology to expect in the next few years. This book is intended to give you a taste of the richness and ease that technology can bring to your life. You'll get an idea of the many products that can enhance your life.
Remember that you don't have to memorize anything here. Just sit back, relax, and absorb whatever information is important to you. This book gives you the gist of what today's gadgets and gizmos can do for you. After you know what is out there, you can experience as much or as little as you like. You're under no pressure. Through this book you will come to enjoy technology.
What's Inside
This book comes with no special instructions for using it. Start at the beginning, or jump around as you please. I've added a quote at the beginning of each chapter because we can always learn from others. I've also included a few special features to help you in your quest for knowledge.
Items that get my official seal of approval are marked as Sandy's Favorite. These are useful, cost-effective products, many of which I use every day.
At the end of each chapter is a list of terminology. After all, part of dealing with technology is learning the lingo.
How This Book Is Organized
There are gadgets and gizmos for every aspect of our lives. I've gathered a wide varity of devices for you to consider, which are grouped according to their applications.
Chapter 1, "Keyboards, Mice, and More," offers a wide variety of keyboards, mice, and other input devices.
Chapter 2, "Computer and Internet Gadgets," is filled with fun and useful gadgets to use with your computer.
Chapter 3, "Entertainment Gadgets," brings the digital world of audio, music, and video into your life.
Chapter 4, "Fun and Games," lets you know that you are never too old to enjoy high-tech gadgets made just for fun.
Chapter 5, "Vision Aides," helps you protect and enhance your vision as you age.
Chapter 6, "Accessories for Healthy Living," can help you stay fit and healthy by using high-tech gadgets.
Chapter 7, "Communication Devices," helps you keep in touch with family and friends.
Chapter 8, "Gadgets for the Home," makes living at home easier and more fun.
Chapter 9, "Photography and Printing," investigates products that enable you to capture and print those precious memories.
Chapter 10, "Travel and Automotive," makes your life on the road easier than ever before.
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