Skills for Change | Bridging the Gap: Reducing Isolation Through Training and Support

No experience with technology? No problem!

Skills for Change is offering an 8-week technology training program, Bridging the Gap: Reducing Isolation Through Training and Support, to help seniors in the Dundas region enhance their proficiency with technology and mental wellness, thanks to support from the Hamilton Community Foundation and Bell Let’s Talk.

This program has the dual purpose of providing technology training and supporting well-being, with activities designed to teach technology fundamentals, enhance mental health and foster feelings of belonging.

Program highlights:

– Familiarize yourself with the settings of your device and become an Internet expert by gaining hands-on experience with web-based applications
– Recognize Internet scams, prevent computer viruses and protect your online identity
– Utilize apps that will help you connect with others, enhance the practicality of your everyday life and make your device more accessible
– Connect with others in a safe and welcoming environment by engaging in weekly social and wellness activities
– Receive hands-on technology training with each session and 1-on-1 support with weekly drop-in hours

We are currently recruiting retirement homes in the Dundas region for this program. If interested, please email skillsforseniors@skillsforchange.org or call 289-400-2078, ext 121.

General Overview

This program is designed to teach technology and internet basics to beginners, with workshops focusing on online safety, applications and accessibility for older adults, and technology training. The program is also focused on enhancing mental health and feelings of belonging, with wellness activities rooted in the principles of positive psychology.

Weeks 1/2: Technology Training 101
Weeks 3/4: Applications: What Can I Do Online?
Weeks 5/6: Accessibility: What Can My Device Do For Me?
Weeks 7/8: Online Safety

Workshop sessions will be divided into three parts. The first part of each session will focus on teaching relevant technology training, the second part of each session will focus on mental health and wellness activities, and the third part of each session will allow seniors to gain hands-on technology experience with application-based activities.

Program Benefits

Eligibility Criteria

– Seniors (55+) in the Dundas Region with an interest in improving their technology and internet skills
– This program is designed to teach technology and internet basics to beginners, although individuals with greater expertise are welcomed and encouraged to join

Important Dates

Our start date for the Bridging the Gap program is to be determined.