That’s exactly what it’s like for seniors trying to get a handle on iPhones, iPads, smartphones, tablets and e-reader technology.

There are currently so many seniors in Bathurst keen to learn about technology that Bathurst City Library’s Tech Savvy Seniors course is booked out until January next year.

Library information and lending services librarian Beth Hall said fear and a lack of confidence keeps many seniors away from devices, and this is one thing the course targets.

She said many seniors buy or are given smart phones, tablets or e-readers, but a lack of confidence often keeps them from even turning it on.

“Manuals aren’t even included, you have to go and download one, but when you’re can’t even get online what do you do?” she said. “It’s like trying to open the door without a door handle.”

Course subjects include basic device use, navigation and icons, internet use, emails, settings and security.

Husband and wife Eve and Noel Scoffield signed up to the course together so they could help each other learn how to use their iPhone and iPad.

“I want to learn my phone and our kids are very technical and they’ve left us behind,” Mrs Scoffield said.

“My son’s in Europe and my daughter’s in Muswellbrook,” Mr Scoffield said.

Mrs Scoffield, 63, said she “feels like I’m being left behind” when it comes to technology, and that prompted her to sign up to the free course.

“We’re definitely better off than when we started and then you can do the next step yourself,” Mr Scoffield, 65, said.

Mrs Hall said she is not surprised there has been such a rush to get places in the course, which accommodates 50 people each intake.

“They’re really afraid of breaking it [their device] and ruining the whole thing,” she said.

“Seniors want to be a part of it [technology], there’s not many that don’t.”

Tech Savvy trainer Rohan Fahey said giving participants the confidence to try things out is one of the main aspects of the course’s structure.

“The main thing we try and teach them is the confidence to learn and then be an independent learner,” he said.

n Tech Savvy Seniors is now in its second year, thanks to a $10,000 NSW Government and Telstra Tech Savvy Seniors Grant.

To find out more about the program or add your name on the waiting list, contact Bathurst City Library on 6333 6281.