DARTS Tech Buddies:
Turning Technology Challenges into a Celebration

Older Adults vs Technology

Older adults versus technology is an ongoing battle. And we know who we want to win! Our goal is to turn technology challenges into a celebration of learning new things. The Tech Buddies program partners older adults with tech-savvy volunteers for ongoing technical support. Help with smart phones, tablets, laptops, televisions, and other technology is now just a call away!

The Digital Age Divide

We’ve all heard the phrase, “keep up with the times.” Well, today’s seniors have to keep up with the times as well as technology. Along with the prejudices seniors face as they age – such as being told they are “set in their ways” and “unwilling to learn” – they also face a very real digital divide. Technology, like smart devices, is ever changing. It’s difficult for many older adults to keep up with the latest and greatest tech on the market. Smartphones, smart televisions, home monitoring systems, computers, social media, and meeting platforms all keep changing and updating before our eyes.

Slower internet speed, lack of/outdated equipment, lack of support, and/or lack of funds for the latest gadgets and upgrades all add to that challenge. The bottom line is many older adults need resources and support to adapt to the changing technology. And that is exactly why we created the Tech Buddies program.

Combating Loneliness

Technology can help seniors alleviate loneliness and social isolation. Facetiming with family, texting with friends, or even scrolling Facebook can help people feel connected. The National Institute on Aging shares the health risks of prolonged loneliness and isolation are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and can shorten a person’s lifespan by as many as 15 years. And that’s because chronic isolation is linked to a range of health issues, including anxiety, depression, heart disease, dementia, and weakened immune systems. WHOA.

Our mission of creating connections to enrich aging is needed now more than ever.

How YOU Can Help – Be the Bridge!

DARTS is here to bridge the divide – with your help. Caring, tech-savvy people like YOU can help keep our older neighbors meaningfully connected to their families and their communities. Tech Buddy volunteers offer help with voicemail set-up, printer troubleshooting, navigating the web, sending texts, and more. Bring one-on-one help to a senior’s home or help at a Tech Buddy event in a community near you!

Help a senior in your community navigate the world of tech and provide knowledge to help them remain independent and connected! Visit dartsconnects.org/volunteer to learn more or to sign up.

Get Help Today!

Are you an older adult in Dakota or Washington County feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with tech?
Tech Buddies can help! Call Lindy at 651-455-1560 or linda.engelken@darts1.org.

DARTS works to transform the aging journey from a challenge into a celebration. Together, we will create connections that enrich aging!