100-year-old May Baker of Gold Coast uses iPad daily to keep in touch with family and the world
GOLD Coast centenarian May Baker is living proof that “old dogs” can learn new tricks.
Despite her age, the Southport nursing home resident is on the cutting edge of technology, daily using her iPad to keep in touch with her family and the world.
The mother of Keith 73, Graham 70, and Ian 63, grandmother of six and great grandmother of seven, celebrated her 100th birthday on June 23, having survived tumultuous world events such as The Great Depression and World War Two.
May Baker recently celebrated her 100th birthday at her Southport home. Picture: Glenn Hampson
While she learned about those events through newspapers and over the wireless, as radio was known in those days, today she keeps in touch over the internet.
“My son from Canberra actually bought me the iPad for my 98th birthday,” said the bright and bubbly great granny.
“Just yesterday I was sending my sons a report of what I’ve been up to recently.
“Mostly I use it for reading but it’s amazing to see how much technology has evolved over the years.”
Mrs Baker said the Second World War had been a difficult time.
May Baker on her iPad. Picture Glenn Hampson
“My husband Ken and I were on our honeymoon when the Japanese entered the war,’ she said.
“He was later called up to the army, along with many of our friends.”
“I spent much of my time during the war with my sister.
“We were good company for each other while we waited for everyone to come home.
“There were certainly no iPads to keep us occupied back then.”
Mr Baker survived the war, dying in 2000 and two years later Mrs Baker moved into the Golden Age Retirement Village.
Thankfully, May’s husband along with many of her friends returned, however, many did not.
May’s husband survived the war and died in 2000. Two years later, May moved into Golden Age Retirement Village in Southport.
Despite some minor health issues in the past, she said she was now better than ever.
“I’m incredibly lucky to have a great family and have the Lord on my side,” she said.
“I feel that I’ve had my hand in his hand and that he’s guided me along the way.”
While Mrs Baker does not get out much these days she is hoping to be able to visit her home of 40 years at Harvey Bay sometime soon.