Technology Training from UTSA Helps Older Adults Adapt to Digital World
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how important technology is in today’s world. But while most of us were able to quickly adapt to new technologies, older adults who don’t know how to use them were isolated and left behind. Fortunately, more than 100 seniors in San Antonio received a free iPad from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and training on how to use it.
According to KSAT news, iPad recipients also underwent a five-week technology training course facilitated through an exclusive partnership between UTSA, Senior Technology Services, and San Antonio Senior Centers. At least six senior centers participated in the grant-funded courses. During classes, seniors were taught how to use an iPad, and at the end of the course, they got to keep it. They learned how to make Zoom calls, learned how to use email, and explored the Google and YouTube apps.
As per information from the source, “The world is changing so fast, you know, we get left behind. But we did have the opportunity to learn, and we enjoyed it,” said Manuel Palacios, who completed the courses.
Understanding technology can have health benefits, such as receiving care via telemedicine. However, many seniors have become more isolated while businesses and family members were connecting via Zoom and Facetime. Worse yet, seniors are often targets for online scammers.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated that more than 5,000 people lost at least $100,000 to online scams in 2022. Technology and customer support schemes continued to be the most common type of fraud reported, with 17,800 complaints filed by victims over the age of 60.
“You become a victim of crime because you are isolated. You cannot access your money. You don’t know what’s going on, a lot of negative results,” said Darryl Greer of OATS.
UTSA’s technology training course for seniors is therefore a welcome development. The good news is that there will be another technology training course at six other senior centers in the fall, though 160 spots have already been booked.
OATS said that it can facilitate free classes anywhere seniors congregate. Seniors can get technology support and resources by calling 210-504-4862.
In conclusion, technology is essential in today’s world, and it’s great to see programs such as the one offered by UTSA helping seniors adapt to a digital world. Moreover, as technology plays an increasingly important role in healthcare, seniors who are better equipped to use it can enjoy better healthcare outcomes.
