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4 Ways to Entertain Tech-Savvy “Seniors”
After graduation tech ideas for students who are candidates for sheltered workshops or supervised employment.
Technology has helped many seniors (senior citizens) stay connected with family, friends and what is happening in the world – even when these senior citizens have slowed down due to physical issues. Can these same tech devices and software help students with visual impairments and other disabilities stay connected after high school? TVI caseloads include students who are college-bound with the goal of entering the professional workforce. TVIs also work with students who, after graduation, may be staying at home or who may be entering a sheltered workshop-type/supervised employment. Many of these students have used technology in the classroom and have a basic level of independence with technology. These students may continue to enjoy using technology for recreation and social reasons, just like senior citizens. Using technology can motivate students, provide social interaction and can be a fun alternative to becoming bored. Keeping active and engaged can also help eliminate self-stimming behaviors and other behavior issues. Tech skills, which are often developed in the classroom, should include tech recreation and leisure skills – this is part of the expanded core curriculum!
The Assistive Technology Blog, 4 Ways to Entertain Tech-savvy Seniors, discusses four types of technology activities:
- Reading and Education
- Games
- Social Media
- Music & Movies
Other tech activities that can be beneficial after graduation, could include:
- Weather app – paired with the appropriate clothing needs according to the weather
- Alarm app – using an alarm for waking up, medication reminder, etc.
- List app (such as Reminders) – creating and using a list for daily routines, shopping needs, etc.
- Calendar app – recording important activities, such as a doctor’s appointment, birthday reminder, upcoming holiday
- Contacts – include family, friends, doctors, co-workers, etc.
- Health app – record health issues, medications, emergency contacts
The above activities can be introduced and integrated into classroom activities before graduation, with the intent of the student independently using these functional skills after graduation.
By Diane Brauner
