SENIORS OF KORO PILIPINO ARE GETTING “PLUGGED IN” THE TECHNOLOGY

By Alicia Siervo
Ontario-Canada
March 28, 2016



Highland Creek

The project not only achieved its intended results but also exceeded its expectations. The main goal of the project “Seniors & Internet, a Viable Combination” was to promote the inclusion of seniors in computer literacy programs and to assist seniors in improving their physical and mental well-being and simply to keep the brain active and alive through exercises, computer literacy and wellness programs. This program also bridges the inter-generational gap between children and the grandchildren and the seniors through a common medium, the computer.
 Using I-pads, computer education was made accessible to seniors through computer classes and information sessions. The enthusiastic participants attended sessions for 2 hours each class for 27 weeks learning how to use the I-pad, navigate the internet, compose emails, access social media and other computer applications. It resulted to a total attendance of 350. Seniors are now “plugged in” the technology. The on-line activities that seem to be impossible for them to do are now within their reach.

In addition to the computer class, SKP held an information session on Cyber Crime and Fraud Prevention ran by the 43rd Division on January 27, 2016 and an information session on Health and Wellness on February 26^th in cooperation with Scarborough General Hospital Chronic Disease Unit.

One of the beneficiaries of this project is the First Saturday Pilipino Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Highland Creek which is now paperless. This group has come and embraced the digital age. The SKP members have transferred all the songs on the I-pads. In addition, the group learned to design a powerpoint presentation and reflect presentation through a projector allowing the community to participate actively and follow mass reading and songs.

With much gratitude and appreciation to the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) for their support; SKP can proudly say that the attendees have gained a new skill in using the internet as a tool to search, communicate and stay connected. This skill has resulted to a boost in self-confidence and image and a greater participation in the community. The door is now wide open to seniors who are now “plugged in” the technology and other greater things in life.