Online Networking Made Easy with SeniorsGrandCentral.com

Sabah Karimi
If you thought online social networking was reserved only for the tech-savvy MySpace generation, think again. Portal sites on MSN, and even Google, offer the average user plenty of options, but it can be hard to shuffle through thousands of sites for basic needs: shopping, researching, or just reading the news can be difficult for people who may not have web-friendly tools and online skills.

Baby boomers and aging adults can now log in to a new online portal at SeniorsGrandCentral.com, an interactive website brimming with customized features. The purpose of the site is to provide programs and applications where people will continue to 'Connect, Learn, and Explore'--making the most of today's high-speed web applications and maximizing their ability to communicate online.

Visual accessibility is a common obstacle for seniors and aging adults. As they tap away on their computers, they often have difficulties with screen sizes, fonts, and lighting adjustments. Without the right settings, this can become a hindrance to using the web, but SeniorsGrandCentral.com is one of the few sites with unique enhancements. Tools such as the Text Enlarger, On-Screen Voice Box Reader, and Magnifying Glass can help users enjoy the entire website with ease.

'Connecting' allows easy access to e-mail, forums, journals, and even personals. It's a one-stop destination for the most common online tasks, and the SeniorsGrandCentral.com makes it easier than ever to navigate through each program. The chat feature allows anyone to log in and set up a profile, share their thoughts, and help create their online networking circle. This is especially important for seniors or aging adults who can become easily isolated from family or former friends. Having an online presence can help them maintain a steady social circle, regardless of life circumstances.

Learning offers video channels and news updates covering today's key topics; FDA health news, the latest health alerts, and other niche subjects specific to seniors can be found in one place. The section also includes informative video tutorials on 'Sending Pictures,' and 'Overview of SGC', helping warm up the user to all of the facets of the site. More online resources in the Archives section provide articles and insights on lifestyle topics; all are explained in simple and convenient formats.

Seniors of all skill levels can further their knowledge and skills by visiting 'Explore.' This highly interactive segment spotlights traveling options, an easy internet search feature, and provides one-touch access to live webcams around the world. Aging doesn't have to lead to a loss of fresh knowledge; 'Explore' offers an encouraging opportunity to continue to learn about the world with the use of today's top web technologies.

For the lifelong shopaholic, the Shop section includes an online pharmacy powered by RxUSA; top products are listed alphabetically, while Orbitz brings travel options and various gift sites feature banner ads for direct connections to top shopping choices. Don't be surprised if you receive gifts from The Sharper Image or Wine.com from grandpa next holiday season; they're looking at a choice range of top shopping portals to make browsing and selection easy.

The Play section is perfect for the child in everyone; from 'The Lighter Side' columns to comics and 'brain stimulators,' taking a break once in a while is another popular feature on SeniorsGrandCentral.com.

Perhaps age really is just a number; healthy social connections and the ability to continue learning and developing skills are traits of a vibrant, health-filled life. SeniorsGrandCentral.com offers a unique opportunity for aging adults to take advantage of the web, using tools and applications designed with their primary needs in mind.

Published by Sabah Karimi - Featured Contributor in Travel and Lifestyle

Sabah Karimi is a Featured Contributor in Travel and Lifestyle. She writes beauty, style, shopping, health, wellness, and personal finance content for various Y! channels. She is a full-time freelance digita...   View profile

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