As the impact of COVID-19 was felt around the world, students and employees were brought to the forefront of conversations involving digital inequalities. But other groups, such as the elderly, were left out of the conversation. Some organizations recognized the need to address the needs of seniors. In Patterson, California, the Hammon Senior Center, created a digital inclusion program for seniors to help elderly community members gain access to technology and computer literacy skills so they too can more fully participate in today’s tech savvy society.

The program not only puts iPads into the hands of these seniors, but it also ensures that each person has the right skills to use the technology. Lessons have focused on everything from photography to Facetime to the basics of Internet safety. The program is also helping to alleviate loneliness, depression, and other anxieties caused by the pandemic. In this podcast, host Matt Langan spoke with Scott Pierson, Recreation Supervisor, Senior Rec Center for the City of Patterson, CA and Luis Puig, Verizon Senior Account Manager about the difference the program has been making in the lives of local residents.

“With this program, seniors are more comfortable with technology; we are in a sense giving them a lifeline to a world outside their normal realm.”

Listen to the full podcast below: