"Tapestry makes it incredibly easy for seniors to access photos from Facebook, check emails, the weather and other useful applications using a tablet or computer," said founder Andrew Dowling.

Tapestry can be used as a web app on most computers or devices, but there is also a Tapestry app for Android to keep things as simple as possible.

“Today’s technologies provide hundreds of ways to stay connected online, but that’s part of the problem: the people who need it most are missing out," said Dowling.

"Some of them are too worried about privacy and security; some don’t like having to sign up for one service after another just because technology keeps on changing; and many just find technology all too hard."

One beta tester was 83-year-old Ruth Moore of Sydney. "I used to have a computer a few years ago, but I think Tapestry is much better for my requirements," she said. "It gives me exactly what I want - contact with my family, photos, information on the internet, and weather updates.

"I'd never used the internet prior to using Tapestry. It's been a revelation to me. I used to see internet addresses in magazines and television, but I could never do anything about it. Now I know exactly what to do."

Two-thirds of the seniors participating in a recent trial of Tapestry conducted with Wesley Mission signed up for the service when the trial completed.

A free 'starter' subscription to Tapestry supports two family members. Paid subscriptions range between $10 per month for up to 10 members and $45 per month for 50 members.