CCOA receives grant from the Wyoming Center on Aging

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when we were forced to shut our doors to inside dining and activities, there was an immediate gap in connecting with seniors, not knowing who utilized technology, if any, and what technology they did use (FB/Messenger, Internet/Web Searches, Texting, etc.). Our only communication was through press releases and social media. CCoA also realized that some we serve didn’t have Internet or cell phones, and we had no idea how many seniors we were reaching with information about changes in services.

Moreover, knowing which seniors needed phone calls to avoid isolation, allowing us to check on their needs, and knowing which seniors could be communicated with by text, FB or emails immediately would have been helpful. It was then we realized if had had we a better understanding of the technology seniors were using, we could have targeted our limited human resources.

In order to improve our connection to seniors we applied for and were awarded a Tech2Connect grant from the University of Wyoming, Wyoming Center on Aging (WyCOA). We are in the process of identifying seniors who already use technology and which technology they use, and for those not currently using any technology, we are also assessing desirability for learning about the various advantages (e.g. Zoom for a healthcare appointment, connect with old friends on FB, visit our web page for updates, or video chat to see loved ones) of connecting to technology.

The kindles we were awarded as part of this program are available as part of a loan program.

WyCOA has received support from with the Wyoming Assistive Resources Technology Program to provide training videos to assist older adults in learning about the technology that can ensure they have access to social services, healthcare and keep them engaged with family and friends. For more information on these educational videos, visit their website at www.uwyo.edu/wycoa. For more information please call the Manager of Volunteers/Outreach & Activities Coordinator Kathy Glass, to sign up 307-587-6221.

We are thankful to be awarded these funds to continue to provide services for our community.