Last year (2016) I started volunteering for Digital Grandparents. I am the teacher and I am assigned to my students who could be my grandparents. I enjoy teaching them new things about technology because I was born into it and I feel comfortable sharing my knowledge. Here is a little story that I will always remember from one of my volunteer sessions: One of my students, named Bob, wanted to
Kathy and I have been working together since 9/29/2016 due to my volunteer course in Northeastern University. It is amazing that we are such a solid tutoring pair throughout a year. We’re constantly teaching each other about different cultures: I told Kathy the stories of my country, and Kathy explained some American TV shows and holidays to me. Week by week, Kathy and I were getting to know each other
As the US older adult population rises, more researchers and organizations are developing technological solutions to continue to allow adults to remain independent and productive longer. According to the U.S. News, by 2060, 25% of the population will be over 65 years old and nearly 40% of them own a smartphone. This emerging population is now seeing a market growth in devices to meet their unique needs, including: robotic companions,
The definition of satisfaction is why I volunteer. On Thursdays, I am always happy to see my students. The thought of being able to teach the older adults about technology every time I go makes me feel blessed. Blessed because I have the knowledge to share. Blessed because my students do not give up. Blessed because my students teach me to stay focused and always strive above and beyond. “No
A recent study, published in The Journals of Gerontology, noted adults 80 years of age or older found fulfillment in using Information and Communication Technology (ICT). For those who used technology to promote their social relationships presented an increase in their psychological well-being. Those who used technology for informational purposes also saw an increase in their physical well-being. No matter the purpose, whether for personal pleasure or to keep the
Our mission is not just to explain how to access the wi-fi or change the desktop background. Our goal is always to dig deeper. Technology is a means to keep in touch with those we love regardless of our physical limitations. The advancements we’ve seen in recent years, has made oceans, time zones, wheel chairs and even languages not seem so insurmountable. The Internet, Facebook, Skype, DuoLingo, and a myriad
In our enthusiasm to encourage everyone to get connected, we want to take a moment to remind everyone to stay safe out there. While there are more good people than bad in this world, there is always a risk when you share your personal information on the Internet. Just like you would lock up your house or car to keep your valuables in your possession, it’s always important to make
This study comprehensively documents the experience and challenges of aging in America. It also clearly lays out the opportunities for marketers in this expanding group: There are currently 76 million aging baby boomers …and experts are developing new insights into how to reach the mature market. Products targeting baby boomers are set to become the next big ad category in the coming years. Workshops, websites, and how-to books abound on
“It was a great honor and invaluable experience for me to help the elderly by teaching them technological and computer skills.” – DGI Tutor and NYIT student Jens Daci
“At first, I thought this whole process thing about teaching elders how to use technology would be really boring. After I started the tutoring session several times, I started to realize that this tutoring thing is very helpful not only to the elders but also to us the teachers. It helped me to learn and understand how the elderly people think about technology and their surroundings. For me, this is
“Working with Digital Grandparents has been one of the best experiences that I have encountered throughout my college career. Just recently I have been working with a student in helping him get a job. He just retired with a degree in animal science and seems to be a man of all trades. He is very knowledgeable but the one thing he struggled with was his computer skills. It makes me
New York Institute of Technology Communications Arts graduate students in Professor Luvon Roberson’s Production House class developed all components of this video for Digital Grandparents Inc., as a key element of the integrated communications plan that is required for the course. For more information, contact lroberson952@gmail.com.
“I really enjoyed working with DGI during my final semester [at Northeastern University]. Meeting older adults from Boston showed me a view of the city I had never seen.” – Eve Anderson, Northeastern University senior, Volunteer Tutor
“[My student] was able to, finally, after so many months, use her printer with her Chromebook….I enjoy all the personal stories and getting to know everyone. I am happy when I can answer questions and help with problems successfully. How thankful everyone is. They are so encouraging and give me great feelings on the inside” – Catherine Contillo – Russell Sage College junior, Volunteer Tutor
