Laughter at Why Boomer Manager Thought Computer Was 'Broken'

A picture from the TikTok of the IT mishap that sparked conversation.

A viral video has sparked a conversation after a woman shared her boomer manager's IT mix-up.

In a video with over 3 million views, TikToker Lauren, @larrydavidswife, shared the hilarious moment she was forced to fix a simple IT mishap.

"My 50-year-old manager: 'The computer is broken, call IT,'" the video said. But Lauren took matters into her own hands.

First, she tried to turn on the monitor, then the computer itself—but neither started.

When they didn't respond, she checked the extension plug on the floor, which was turned off. With a simple flick of the switch, the computer sprang to life without any need for IT assistance.

"I think my manager is broken," she joked in the caption.

The moment resonated with viewers, who rushed to share their reactions in the comments.

TJ said: "Can confirm as someone who works in IT that this is something I deal with weekly." While startled_pancake said: "I used to get paid $65k a year to do that in IT."

"Yet they'll say things like 'the younger generations don't know how to write a check.' Maybe check yourself first," said TikToker Shortbread Head.

While Jess wrote: "I'm the youngest in my office by 20+ years, therefore I work in IT."

Tech literacy in the U.S. has come a long way in the past decade, according to the Pew Research Center. But significant gaps in knowledge between younger and older adults remain.

For example, 68 percent of those aged 18-29 can identify an example of two-factor authentication, compared to only 26 percent of those aged 65 and older. Similarly, 73 percent of adults aged 29 and younger understand that cookies track user visits and activity on websites, while just 57 percent of those over 65 understood this.

While tech literacy in older adults may prevent issues like thinking the computer is broken when it isn't, there are even more important reasons older adults should prioritize tech understanding.

Tech literacy enables older adults to participate in their health and social care as information and advice is increasingly available to them on the internet.

While enhanced social connectivity with loved ones and assistive technologies on smartphones and other devices can empower adults to live safely and independently as they age.

As a result of this, many community schemes at local libraries and colleges have begun running classes and providing support for older adults with technology, helping older adults improve digital skills and stay connected.

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