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Launched at Senior Planet Centers nationwide, the program gives older adults the opportunity to explore and use new technology tools in person.
new york, December 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its mission to help older adults thrive in the digital world, Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) is launching Tech Tank from AARP, an innovative program that allows participants to engage with new technologies in a supportive environment. A program that started this summer at Senior Planet Centers New York City and Palo Alto, will expand to Senior Planet Centers in the country – including DenverPlattsburgh and Miami – starting in 2023.
The Tech Tank was created to help demystify modern technology for adults, many of whom are on the wrong side of the digital divide. The program aims to provide a barrier-free space where older adults can interact with new digital tools in person with the support of trainers to learn the skills they need to use and use innovative technologies, including Amazon. Echo 8, VR headsets, drones, telepresence robots and game consoles.
“From day one, our goal has been to help older adults harness the power of technology. Tech Tank was born from that goal,” he said. Tom CamberExecutive Director of OATS from AARP. “By providing an educational environment for Senior Planet participants to physically touch, see and try new technologies, Tech Tank gives older adults the opportunity to explore digital tools that can improve their lives in transformative ways.”
Since the start of the Tech Tank pilot program in 2011, July 2022Over 50 participants in two Senior Planet Centers had the opportunity to try new technology tools in the pilot program. After testing the idea with the Amazon Echo 8, Senior Planet conducted a survey with participants and found that although it was extremely useful, more than 50% of participants had never heard of the device before deploying it in Tech Tank.
“As someone who loves to learn but is also very tech savvy, I find the Tech Tank incredibly useful. It’s also a huge confidence boost.” said the Tech Tank participant Dorothy Zelder80 years old. Queens, New YorkParticipated in Tech Tank pilot program. “The program provides a much-needed outlet for seniors like myself who are eager to get up to speed on new technology in today’s evolving digital landscape. I encourage all seniors to get out there and give it a try!”
“I’ve seen seniors who are in the center for a classroom or 1-1 tech tutorial, discover and learn about new products thanks to Tech Tank,” he said. Manager of the Senior Planet Center in NYC Stella Fosu. “It’s amazing to see the scary veil of technology lift right away when someone takes their plays with real products. And it reminds us to have fun with technology!”
Over the next year, the tech tank’s pilot will go beyond the Amazon Echo to offer members a variety of new experiences, including virtual reality (Oculus), Ring Doorbell and Fitbit.
About OATS from AARP
OATS from AARP helps seniors learn to use and use technology to transform their lives and communities. Through its flagship program, Senior Planet, OATS works closely with seniors to create extraordinary experiences in person and online. As one of AARP’s philanthropic partners, OATS’ mission from AARP is “Using the Power of Technology to Transform Our Age.” To understand more, visitwww.oats.orgOr follow @OlderAdultsTech on social media.
Media Contact: Suzanne Myklebust, [email protected]
SOURCE Technology services for older adults from AARP
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