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Area Agencies on Aging, like AgeSmart Community Resources, provide essential resources to help older adults remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible. Funded through the Federal Older Americans Act, AgeSmart is one of 13 agencies in Illinois dedicated to supporting older adults in their region.
"Technology is intimidating for most older adults. What’s unique about GetSetUp is that the platform allows older adults to learn things from their peers as well as with their peers. We are excited to offer tools and resources to help older adults stay connected and socially engaged through our partnership with GetSetUp!"
— Kiyeon Yoch, AgeSmart’s Grants/Planning Manager
The pandemic has significantly impacted older adults, the group hardest hit and most vulnerable due to isolation from social distancing. AgeSmart had to quickly adapt, moving from in-person group activities to curbside meal pickups and telephonic services.
"Older adults are the age group hardest hit and the most vulnerable. They are suffering most by the isolation of social distance."
To mitigate these challenges, AgeSmart implemented well-being check-in calls, connected homebound individuals with food programs, and introduced virtual learning programs through GetSetUp. These initiatives have been crucial in helping older adults maintain social connections and continue learning during these isolating times.
"Seniors are pretty isolated. They are generally at a higher risk for loneliness and now they are even more at risk with social isolation and loneliness — and that’s an issue."
Lifelong learning is essential for keeping the mind sharp and maintaining overall well-being as we age. GetSetUp provides older adults with a platform to engage in learning and social activities that promote physical, emotional, and cognitive health.
"Learning and education are really important. I’m a huge proponent of lifelong learning, especially since as we age, that is what keeps our mind sharp and our brain active. There are a number of studies that show that learning in later life promotes our physical and emotional well-being. I believe learning is an essential component of successful aging overall."
Through GetSetUp, AgeSmart has been able to offer a variety of classes that cater to the interests and needs of older adults, from basic technology skills to personal enrichment courses. These classes have not only helped older adults stay engaged but have also introduced new learners to the valuable resources AgeSmart provides.
"The whole concept of online learning for older adults in a live group format I thought was a great way to stay connected and socially engaged."
As AgeSmart and other area agencies continue to evolve to meet the needs of older adults, the integration of virtual learning into senior centers is seen as a long-term investment. The future may involve a blend of in-person and virtual learning experiences, with senior centers offering internet access and devices to facilitate group learning sessions.
"In the future when the senior centers reopen, we want to continue to utilize these classes and have them offered as virtual learning at the senior center. We would like to see a lot of seniors come to the senior center where we would have set up devices and internet access. Maybe even cast class to a Smart TV and have a small group class. I’m not sure how that would work yet, but we see this as a long-term investment."
AgeSmart, along with GetSetUp, is leading the way in modernizing care for older adults. Explore the virtual classes and social hours that are keeping older adults engaged and connected, demonstrating why virtual learning is here to stay.