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Techwit By Jason Ohler

Growing older has made me think about the kinds of technology I hope to have in my sunset years and what a growth industry senior technology could be. Here are a few gizmos I hope will be around when I need them in the not too distant future.

The heart and soul of my future technology arsenal will be a walker that's connected to a satellite tracking system. Known affectionately as "Where's Grandpa?", this new breed of walker will allow my loved ones to know where I am at all times. This not only gives them peace of mind, but it also allows them to control my behavior from afar, just like the ankle bracelets worn by criminals. Mild shocks will be applied should I wander into a bar before noon. Lawrence Welk music will emanate from speakers mounted on the handle bars as I leave. A small computer screen will show me the route to the nearest bingo game.

In fact, there are enough gadgets for geezers waiting to be invented to fill an entire Sharper Image catalog. Like a wristwatch that broadcasts the Weather Channel all day. How about large print Palm Pilots? True, using them could be slow going because the screen will only be able to show one word a time. But hey, when I'm retired all I've got is time. And who says I have to have blue hair just because I'm old? I look forward to Selsun Pink and Green, even if I am wearing a toupee. While I'm on the topic of fashion, I think I'll take advantage of my sagging skin and go for some of that body piercing that sets off airport security alarms, as long my cardiologist doesn't think I'm overexciting myself. And while I'm venting, why is my age group being left out of the video game world? Three game titles come to mind that people my age would love to have: Shuffle Board Warrior; Filling out a Florida Presidential Ballot, and Pills, Pills, Who's Got My Pills?

I gotta' go. My pacemaker just sent my cell phone a message telling me it was time for my nap. But before I nod off I want to thank AARP, the official welcoming committee of the aging, who gave me a jingle on the Internet the day I turned 50. I don't how they found me, but shortly thereafter the ads for Viagra, Caribbean cruises and bargain rate dentures just kept coming. You've probably heard the old saying, if you don't think anyone cares about you just try not paying your rent. Well, if you really want to get someone's attention, just try turning 50.

Jason Ohler is professor of educational technology at the University of Alaska Southeast and can be reached at jason@jasonohler.com. © 2002 Jason Ohler.