OWL Everyday Technology

Our flagship program, OWL Everyday Technology, is specifically designed for older adults who are not comfortable using Mobile Technology Devices.
EngAging Seniors bridges the digital and social divide by providing Mobile Digital Literacy (MDL) skill development that empowers older adults to participate effectively in today's increasingly technological world. Our training gives older, wiser, learners the confidence to access essential services, connect with their community and the broader world, and enjoy a full and active life as the use of digital technology and tools continues to accelerate.
THE PROBLEM
Seniors are being left behind in this digital world!

WHY EVERYDAY TECHNOLOGY IS NECESSARY...
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There are 1,300 different brands of Android smartphones; 24,000 distinctly different models (source: android.com).
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Our experience has found that seniors are drawn to Androids due to their affordability.
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The smartphone may be their introduction to digital devices.
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There are no Smartphone classes/courses tailored to the unique needs of the Greater Cincinnati senior population.
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Older adults need the most basic smartphone skills, taught in small groups by other seniors who understand their challenges.
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Smartphone User Manuals are mostly available online and through apps on some smartphones. Seniors have a strong preference for hard copies and many seniors do not have access to a printer. Furthermore, these manuals are too lengthy to be printed.
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It cannot be assumed that all Seniors have a second device, e.g. laptop, to watch instructional videos.
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Seniors with vision and/or hearing difficulties will find it extremely challenging to watch an instructional video on one device while trying to apply it directly to the use of their smartphone.
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Accessibility features need to be taught so that seniors with deficits in sight, touch and hearing can use technology.
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Help may be available from family, but seniors hesitate to ask. “I feel stupid” is the response we heard.
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Many Retailers are offering digital discounts/coupons only. Seniors are missing out.
Our Path Towards a Solution...

All Smartphone Basics for Beginners Courses include:
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Course researched and developed by an Occupational Therapist
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A vetted Senior Guide to assist two participants throughout this 4 week course
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Senior led designed content Manual/Workbook to customize to one's individual smartphone
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Lab Exercises for a direct hands-on approach within classroom time
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Safety tips on care of one's Smartphone
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How to recognize various scams and ways to avoid them
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Importance of Passwords and tips on how to retrieve them
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How to communicate more effectively with family, friends and others
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Ways to adapt one's Smartphone to assist through various physical limitations
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Visual Glossary of Smartphone Terms and essential APPS
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And More!!!
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A stylus pen
Senior-specific technology education is key to achieving our mission. All EngAging Seniors' materials and modules are designed specifically to meet the learning styles and preferences of older adults, including individual and small group classes taught by Nicole and supported by senior adult peer class "guides".
Participants get hands-on practice with one's own Smartphone by applying easy-to-understand concepts with Senior Guides to "guide" them through lab exercises in a safe, judgement-free setting.
Critical to the success of our Smartphone Basics for Beginners Course is our "seniors guiding seniors" approach. We pair our program participants with knowledgeable, vetted Senior Guides in two-on-one or small class environments. Our Senior Guides have "been there, done that"... in fact, over 20% of participants from each course continue learning by becoming a Senior Guide themselves!!!

Participant Feedback
100%
saw an increase in implementing Smartphone vocabulary terms
100%
were able to identify and understand the important Status Bar icons
100%
increased
confidence in safety & security while using their Smartphone
100%
Found the Senior Guides offered calm peer-to-peer guidance