In part one of this series [Hey, I didn't know it was going to be a series either], amazed that computer manufacturers don’t understand a potentially huge untapped market, I outlined what kind of computing hardware and software would be good for seniors. But what about those who for whatever reason, be it advanced age, physical infirmity or location are unable to manage a computer but still want to be a part of family and friends digital life? How can this be accomplished? While reading the Denver Post this morning (Okay it was mostly the comics) I came across an article about SunnyGram. This sounded like a great idea so I decided to check them out. Turns out it is such a great idea that it needs to be shared. This article in USAWeekend.com describes SunnyGram’s service.
A mailbox containing real mail with real family pictures is about as rare these days as a day without e-mail. But for those who don’t use e-mail – like many of our non-wired grandparents – there’s now a service that sends family news and digital pictures from your e-mail account to someone’s snail mailbox for $9.95 a month.
Sunnygram collects all of the e-mails addressed to [the recipient] and mails out a weekly, cheery compilation of messages (large font is an option) with embedded pictures. [The recipient can] respond through a Sunnygram prepaid letter (which would be scanned and e-mailed) or a toll-free number (the audio file then would be e-mailed).
From the SunnyGram.com FAQ:
Q: What is a Sunnygram?
A: A Sunnygram is a beautiful newsletter for your loved one filled with email messages and photos from family and friends. A Sunnygram is mailed via U.S. Postal Service each week so your loved one doesn’t need to use a computer or any special equipment to stay connected.Q: How much does a Sunnygram subscription cost?
A: Only $9.95 per month. There are absolutely no other fees. You can also purchase a 6 month subscription for $49.95 or a year subscription for $99.95.Q: Is it easy to read a Sunnygram?
A: Yes! Sunnygrams are available in large print (18-pt) at no extra charge, and regular print is already quite large (14-pt). In addition, Sunnygrams are printed using color laser printers for a crisp picture.Q: How many people can send email to my loved one?
A: There is no limit to the number of people who can send emails. Once you’ve created the email address for your loved one, share it with all family members and friends who want to stay in touch.Q: I was planning to get my Mother a computer. Why should I consider Sunnygram?
A: Computers are great for some people, but they are expensive and sometimes difficult to use. Almost everyone has had trouble opening an attachment or has gotten frustrated sifting through spam. A Sunnygram subscription eliminates these issues and allows your loved one to receive email messages and photos hassle free. Another factor to consider is that the price of internet access alone can be three to five times more expensive than a Sunnygram subscription, not to mention the price of the computer equipment. Sunnygram is perfect for families on a budget.Q: Is Sunnygram secure?
A: Sunnygram processes incoming messages using secure proprietary message-handling software. It is as secure as email and postal mail. Message content is not read by any employee or agent of Sunnygram at any time, maximizing privacy. Our system also eliminates spam, only allowing messages from approved email addresses.
Is this cool or what? In case you want endorsements other than me [crazy I know] here’s what AARP says in a Now Hear This article.
Mail Twist
Sunnygram.com is rewriting the hare and tortoise tale. It combines e-mail and snail mail to deliver correspondence and photos to people who shun computers. For $9.95 a month, the Glendale, Calif., company provides “computer-free” e-mail to technophobes, transforming digital messages and photos into a newsletter that is delivered to a mailbox.
So there you have it – a service that allows a senior, disabled or incarcerated person to go digital without having to invest in a computer. For about a quarter of what a cheap broadband connection will set you back each month. And did I mention that you can try SunnyGram for a month free?
For new subscribers, we are now offering one month free, no obligation. Try Sunnygram for a month and decide at the end whether you want to continue with the service.
How cool is that? You can check them out at SunnyGram.com.
[...] about finding the right computer system and decried the lack of availability of such systems. In part 2 we talked about how to get connected with friends and family when access to a computer system is [...]