In Barnstable, Massachusetts, a dedicated effort is underway to ensure that older adults are not left behind in the digital age. Thanks to grant funding and a commitment to digital equity, the town’s Council on Aging (COA) is providing valuable resources and training to help older adults navigate the world of technology.
Barnstable COA Director Kelly Howley recently shared insights into their successful digital equity initiatives. A key driver for these programs was the impending discontinuation of Senior Planet OATS classes due to a lack of funding. Kelly saw an opportunity in a digital equity grant from the Executive Office of Aging and Independence and successfully secured $13,800 to keep these vital classes going.
This grant enabled the Barnstable Adult Community Center (BACC) to purchase a mobile computer lab, complete with a charging cart and ten laptops. This mobile setup allows for flexible computer classes in any room of the building, eliminating the need for a dedicated, and potentially underutilized, computer lab. More importantly, the grant funded the classes themselves, ensuring participants could continue to access this valuable resource.
The impact of these programs extends beyond just basic computer skills. Participants are learning how to organize and utilize the photos on their phones, create digital memories, and connect with loved ones in new ways. The BACC has run four classes, and provided two in the Dennis Center for Active Living, each consisting of five-week sessions.
Building on this success, Barnstable also secured a Massachusetts Councils on Aging SIG grant for digital cafés, a concept already proving successful in other centers. These cafés offer drop-in assistance for various devices, including iPhones, Androids, and iPads. The focus is on providing personalized support and addressing individual tech challenges.
Looking ahead, Kelly and her staff are exploring partnerships with local libraries to expand the reach of these programs and bring them directly to residents in different villages. This recognizes that accessibility and comfort levels vary, and meeting people where they are is crucial for effective engagement.
Digital equity is not just about access to technology; it’s about understanding and utilizing it effectively. Kelly shared a powerful observation: many older adults feel empowered when they overcome a technological hurdle. The ability to master a new skill, like organizing photos or navigating a smartphone, boosts their confidence and encourages them to embrace further learning. This empowerment is a key indicator of the program’s success.
The COA is also actively involved in broader digital equity initiatives in Barnstable. They are collaborating with the Cape Cod Commission, which is conducting listening sessions to understand community needs. The COA recently hosted an information session for the commission, gathering valuable input from older adults attending their classes.
Kelly emphasized the importance of starting with the basics. Many individuals face fundamental challenges, such as lack of internet access or affordable devices. Addressing these foundational issues is crucial before moving on to more advanced digital literacy initiatives.
The conversation highlighted the importance of meeting people where they are, acknowledging that some individuals may choose not to engage with technology. However, by providing accessible training, personalized support, and multiple avenues for engagement, the Barnstable COA is effectively bridging the digital divide and empowering seniors to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The success of these programs showcases the power of community-driven initiatives and the positive impact of investing in digital equity for all ages.
Resource:
COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE: TECHNOLOGY ACCESS AND PROGRAMMING FOR OLDER ADULTS
