MISSOULA COUNTY - Missoula Aging Services (MAS) is introducing a new program called Lifelong Connections which will provide low-income, older adults with tablets, two years of Wi-Fi and training at no cost. The overall goal of the program is to train 100 older adults on how to use technology in order to access telehealth, reduce social isolation, continue to volunteer and to take advantage of services available online like grocery shopping.
Those enrolled in the program will receive a Samsung Galaxy Tab A. Rob Edwards, MAS community services director, said when selecting the tablets they were prioritizing ones that were easy to use, cost efficient and reliable. They went with tablets instead of phones because the screens are large enough to accommodate those with visual challenges.
MAS partnered with Verizon to provide the tablets and unlimited data plan for two years because many of their clients do not have access to Wi-Fi.
“We are committed to two years but hope to continue with the program long term,” Edwards said. “Many of our older neighbors have no access to technology or Wi-Fi. Some have outdated equipment that does not have cameras or microphones, leaving them unable to take advantage of telehealth opportunities to stay connected with their physician.”
Enrollers will learn how to use Zoom, Microsoft Teams and email. Users will also be able to request other apps as well.
As of now, all of the tablets have been paid for due to contributions from Montana Geriatric Education Center, State of Montana Business Innovations Grants and the May & Stanley Smith Charitable Trust.
Edwards said the pandemic acted as the motivating factor for launching the program.
“Unfortunately I don’t think that we would have started this program without the experiences we are having in the pandemic environment,” he said. “Older adults are often hesitant users of technology and the pandemic has demonstrated how technology can be a positive experience for them moving forward.”
They are expecting to distribute the first 50 in late January or early February 2021. Ideally they hope to give out the next batch in the spring but there is no firm deadline. At this time the program has had 35 people commit, but they are expecting the next 15 to enroll soon.
Edwards said they may need more trainers as the program continues but currently they are not in need of volunteers. So far four staff members and three volunteers have offered to provide training. In addition MAS put out a call for volunteers and 12 individuals stepped forward in the first few days.
Trainers are given an initial in-person session and hands off of technology training. These sessions use social distancing modifications and plexiglass dividers. Afterwards all other training is done remotely.
Edwards anticipates that the most challenging portion will be remote training the elderly participants to use the tablet while they are simultaneously learning its functions.
Those interested in connecting with the program should contact MAS at (406) 728-7682.
Reader Comments(0)