By Jennifer Gray, Township of Tiny, Volunteer Writer Oct. 4, 2024
Coffee and Connect
Healthy aging studies prove that older adults who have close connections and relationships not only live longer but cope better with health conditions and experience less depression. Having a satisfactory social network can improve health and increase longevity.
Technology gives us a way to stay connected. During Covid, the online streaming services Zoom and FaceTime experienced unprecedented growth as people jumped on the free software tool to connect with others. Book clubs, card groups, family events and other social groups took advantage to continue their get-togethers in an online format.
Thankfully those days are behind us but the relevance of the technology remains.
That’s why we’re excited that Tiny’s ‘Coffee and Connect’ program for Adults 55+ is returning this Fall. Since its introduction in the Fall of 2021, the program has had many participants attend the six-week, two-hour workshop to learn useful applications of phones, tablets and computers. The classroom-based environment is relaxed, welcoming and inclusive. A small team of expert and very patient instructors teach participants how to safely and effectively use functions on their devices that can assist and enhance everyday living. The instruction is interactive; while learning technology, the students are encouraged to provide feedback, ask questions and assist each other.
A wide variety of applications are taught throughout the six-week program. Topics range from the basics of turning on the device and using simple functions, to texting, creating a contact list, video calling, app management, voice to text, password protection, multifactor authentication, photo management and much more. Each week’s class has a basic framework for instruction and students are provided with handout notes. The lessons are very fluid with instructors responsive to participants’ individual requirements and questions. All levels of experience are welcome – beginners and non-beginners alike. All that’s needed is a good attitude and desire to learn. Tablets are available on loan where required.
Participant feedback on the program has been very positive. A woman who attended the program three different times found it extremely useful for her and her husband. She commented that the learning environment was “great…the room is large and bright and the visual aids very helpful…the instructors went at our speed.” She also added that the information they learned “gave them the confidence to use their phones more on their own…I think that everyone should take the program.”
The first six-week session begins Tuesday, October 29 from 9:30-11:30am. It runs through to December 3rd.
Located at the Wyebridge Community Centre (8340 Highway 93, Tiny). To register online visit www.tiny.ca/playportal or show up in person and fill out a registration form.
For further information call 705-526-4204.