The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness for older adults in senior living facilities due to isolation and bans on visitations to protect senior residents. Furthermore, the “digital divide” experienced by older adults limited access to online platforms for social engagement. Tech for Seniors provides technology training to serve low-income/fixed-income bilingual seniors so they can use technology as a tool to combat social loneliness and isolation. In this 20-minute workshop, attendees will be engaged directly to learn about the goals, methodology, evaluation, and best practices of the Tech for Seniors program. The session will incorporate engagement and learning activities by providing 20 attendees with an iPad to experience the Tech for Seniors program firsthand. Examples of activities include using the iPad to scan QR codes to read participant testimonials and bilingual YouTube tutorial videos, configuring the iPad to be age-friendly, and participating in a live demo of a Tech for Seniors group class. 
    

Learning Objective(s)    

1. Learn about a program that uses technology training for older adults can be an effective strategy to combat social isolation and loneliness
2. Understand why an intergenerational approach for older adult programs creates meaningful relationships and bi-directional learning
3. Understand best practices for technology program implementation for older adults