Here's some info from a study just released by AARP. I thought this might be of interest to some on the list. From the website: ----- Generations Online: Getting By With A Little Help From One's Kids Over two-thirds (71%) of adults surveyed age 25-44 who reported having an older parent or older adult with a computer are contacted by that person for help with their computer or the Internet. In fact, of these, over three quarters (78%) are the first person their relative turns to for help, with nearly 50% saying they are contacted more than twice a month. While some might expect frequent requests for technology support would be a burden, the survey proves otherwise as over 80% of those surveyed report that having their older relatives online has made a positive difference in their lives. In fact, several respondents reported that they enjoyed being able to help their parents and that this was a way that they could give back for all their parents had done. Additional findings from the survey: * 43% of the respondent's 50+ parents use instant messaging to keep in touch with their children * email is used nearly as frequently with families who live closer geographically (94%) than those who live far apart (99%) * 78% of respondents have taught computer use; 74% how to use email; 64% have helped set up a computer * older grandchildren (52% of respondents with kids 18-24 years old and 48% of respondents with kids 11-17 years old) help their grandparents with the computer of the Internet ----- To download the report, click http://links.aarp.org/generationsonline (PDF, 72K) or visit http://www.aarp.org/olderwiserwired Beth Mazur IDblog: http://idblog.org