By Danna Downing
Do you ever feel as if you are being buried alive by all the new technology that is thrust upon us each and every day? You are not alone.
Fifty to 70 percent of older adults struggle with technology. During the COVID Pandemic, numerous tech support initiatives for older adults got underway. However, there was little evaluation about the effectiveness of these efforts. But in one research project, 35 older adults ranging from 55 to 90 years, and an average age of 74, with diverse ethnicity and race, with low income as a common measure, were given free devices, unlimited broadband, and access to training during the pandemic lockdown. This study showed that while there was some degree of improved comfort level and skill adoption, there was no guarantee of growth in participants’ utilization of digital devices in the long term.
In addition, this study recommended customized training based on individual needs, skill levels, and interests to maximize successful learning and device utilization that can support independent living and positive aging.
It is easy to see why most older adults prefer to have help from family members who are already fluent and successful in our high-tech environment. These people are the ones who already know the older adult, and with luck, are readily available for answering questions, supporting skills refreshment or introducing other new services and programs which are important to their loved one.
The reality for many of us is that our relatives are busy, too far away, or lack the experience and patience that are required for success. The good news is that there are other resources for persons in this situation.
What first draws a person to take the first step to get training for a new tech opportunity is unique to the individual. Remember when Facebook became a huge motivation for seniors who wanted to stay in contact with family and friends? The top driver for becoming more computer literate has evolved over time. Access to online banking and healthcare management now tops the request list for most. Also noteworthy is the growing number of younger family members who use the internet to better assist their loved ones in the areas of care compliance, senior safety, accommodations for low vision, and many other new challenges.
One of the most comprehensive and evidence-based organizations committed to the digital literacy mission is OATS (Older Adult Technology Services). This organization offers FREE digital literacy services online and at six locations across the United States. OATS, through its flagship program “Senior Planet”, works to empower people to embrace opportunities to reshape their lives. OATS is a registered non-profit organization which became an AARP charitable affiliate early in 2021. Learn more about their rich resources and opportunities at https://seniorplanet.org. Their programs often involve use of ZOOM, but there are also real people well trained to assist over the phone.
Fortunately, now there are emerging resources being unveiled by our very own South County Senior Center for Active Living. The center is located at the spacious quarters of Vicksburg United Methodist Church at 217 S Main Street in Vicksburg, operating in partnership with the church and other community services who are devoted to serving older adults in our rural communities.
On Thursday, March 20, from noon until 1 p.m., Jenner Wile, a software engineer from Eastport Analytics, will present a free lunch-and-learn about cybersecurity awareness. Stay tuned for upcoming additional sessions of senior tech help designed to provide older adults with one-to-one assistance with cellphones, laptops, or tablets. For more information, contact Sherri Martin, SCSC Coordinator at 269-720-0974 or smartin@southcountycs.com.
