This document discusses introducing iPads to older adults. It provides examples of programs that have loaned or provided iPads to older adults for training and engagement. Benefits of iPad use for older adults include social engagement, mental stimulation, independence, and leisure activities like reading, games, and photos. Considerations for programs include device ownership, instructor age and ratios, accessibility options, and differences between older and younger users. Recommendations include simplifying tasks and exploring student interests.
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Introducing iPads to Seniors
1. Kate Finn, Ph.D.
Fiona Finn Tiene
Wiser Usability, Inc.
Introducing iPads to
Older Adults
2. "I don't have any formal studies, but I see
residents who don't like large groups now
have something to keep them stimulated,
and I see their smiles and satisfaction
that they can accomplish the task.”
[Director of a Memory Care Assisted Living Residence]
Why an iPad? Why Now?
ASA 2014 2Introducing iPads to Older Adults
3. “The dominant response in residents’
satisfaction surveys was the desire for
more technology and education.”
[Director of Bus Dev at Senior Living Community]
Why an iPad? Why Now?
ASA 2014 3Introducing iPads to Older Adults
4. “The residents were clearly engaged for a
lengthy amount of time and proud of
themselves once they completed a game.”
[Director of Assisted Living Community]
Why an iPad? Why Now?
ASA 2014 4Introducing iPads to Older Adults
5. 1983: Steve Jobs’ Concept
Great computer in a book you carry
Learn to use in 20 minutes
Wireless access to everything
2010: Release of first iPad
2013: 200m tablets sold
Background
ASA 2014 5Introducing iPads to Older Adults
7. +
Lightweight
Portable
Screen, target size
Easy to maintain
Direct touch
Simpler interface
Security
−
Expense
“Accessibility”
Passwords required
User Interface
Hidden functions
Multi-touch gestures
Accuracy for selecting
App inconsistency
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 7
iPad Device Pro’s and Con’s
8. Staying in touch with
friends and family
Reducing loneliness
Keeping up with
current events
Benefits: Social Engagement
ASA 2014 8Introducing iPads to Older Adults
9. Mental stimulation
Activity tracking
Sense of independence,
control
Benefits: Health
ASA 2014 9Introducing iPads to Older Adults
11. “Reasons why iPads are good for memory care
residents” [from aPlaceForMom.com]
Encourage socialization; some encourage mobility
Open up ways of communication (music, art)
Something new, fun, “easy”
Benefits: People with
Memory Impairments
ASA 2014 11Introducing iPads to Older Adults
12. Older Adults’ Main Uses for iPads?
Mostly the Same as Everyone Else’s!
ASA 2014 12Introducing iPads to Older Adults
Keeping in touch with friends/family
Reading
Brain training and other games
Health research
Financial transactions
Shopping
Taking, organizing photos
Reminiscing, autobiography
Listening to music
13. ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 13
Good question!
Strong push for “helpful” apps for the 50+
Most Popular Mobile Applications?
“Savvy Seniors”
• Skype
• Story Before Bed
• Find My Phone
• Over 40 Magnifier
• Pillboxie
• VizWiz
• Dragon Dictation
• iDiabetes
• BP Monitor
“Devices & Apps for the Elderly”
• MedWatcher
• Diabetes
• Prime Alert
• MediSave Virtual Pillbox
“Top Apps for Post50s”
• It’s Done
• Eye Reader
• Pandora
• Park’n Find
• iTriage
• Mint.com
• Ambiance
• GasBuddy
• Fandango
• AroundMe
15. Goal: to get more engagement between
residents and families
iPads on long-term loan to residents
Specific staff conduct drop-in classes,
are available to help between classes
Several residents bought iPads
Classes now open to non-residents
(BYOD)
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 15
Sunny View Retirement
Community
16. OATs
An established non-profit in NYC
Offers courses at several sites
SeniorNet
Non-profit with locations at community and senior
centers around the world
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 16
OATs & SeniorNet
17. Contracts to give classes in
senior communities and centers.
Also offers a Train-the-Trainer model.
Trains staff members how to:
Set up iPad
Teach classes
Provide support
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 17
Generation Connect
18. 25 teen volunteers partnered with 35 OAs
Over 5-mos, held 28 learning events (450)
“Improved seniors’ technology knowledge and
enriched the lives of both generations”
One-to-one tutoring available by appt
BYOD
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 18
City of Palo Alto Library
19. College students are teamed w 2 OAs
who live in senior residence
Work with them for 6 months
OAs have iPads, or borrow from Pace
Graduation ceremony!
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 19
Pace University: Gerontechnology
20. Pilot Programs: Participants get iPads, wi-fi, training
for 5-6 mos
In DC, with OATS and Family Matters of Greater Wash.
Ended Nov 2013
Chose people w/o any previous computer experience
In South Dakota, with OATS (trained volunteers),
USD and Good Samaritan Society
Ending March 2014
55 seniors get classes 2x/wk, + lab
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 20
AARP Foundation:
Connecting to Community
21. Helps low-income, older Americans combat loneliness
and develop social connections through social media
and other online offerings.
Adoption of technology increases social engagement
among OAs, but many can’t take advantage of it b/c
of lack of instructional opportunities and support.
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 21
AARP Foundation:
Connecting to Community
22. ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 22
AARP TEK Pavilion,
Life@50+
Photo courtesy GypsyNester.com
30. Familiarity with icons and terminology
Speed and accuracy of motor skill usage
Recognition of gestures on touchscreen
Inclination to
explore/experiment
Amount of use in
spare time
Memory of past
information
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 30
Differences between
Younger and Older Users
Flickr Photo by Fancy Jantzi
31. Show students what’s possible, but find out what they're
actually interested in doing/learning
Provide quiet environment
Simplify passwords, network access
Help them set up their accessibility options
Provide handouts or notebook
Review at start of each lesson
Assign homework
Encourage student sharing
Encourage student exploration
Online, face-to-face contact w students between classes
ASA 2014 Introducing iPads to Older Adults 31
Recommendations