Redford Township Library Taps Into GetSetUp to Promote Health, Learning, and Connection for Older Adults

Redford Township Library Taps Into GetSetUp to Promote Health, Learning, and Connection for Older Adults
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Thanks to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ partnership with GetSetUp, libraries across the state have gained access to a wealth of live and on-demand interactive classes designed specifically for older adults. Kendra, a librarian at Redford Township District Library, is excited about the potential of using the platform to help Detroit-area seniors stay engaged, active, and informed.

“I have explored GetSetUp a bit, and there’s such a wide variety from art history, exercise, and food classes. These are a lot of appealing things that people already come to the library for,” said Kendra. “It’s a great opportunity for lifelong learning.”

Serving many Detroit residents who travel to Redford for reliable and welcoming services, Kendra sees GetSetUp as a natural extension of what libraries already provide; access to education, wellness, and community connection. 

“People prefer the suburban libraries if they can get to us because we offer a neighborhood service they can use,” she said.

Health & Wellness at the Core

Kendra is particularly excited about the wellness offerings. 

“We have some fitness options now, including a chair yoga class, but that won’t last forever. It’ll be nice to include GetSetUp to keep that going.”

She also sees potential in cooking classes using the library’s demo kitchen: 

“We could even cook along! The gardening series would be a hit, too. Those are always popular.”

Beyond physical health, the library wants to support mental engagement and safety. 

“If I was going to do a watch party, which I’d like to do, it might be [about] computers or how to avoid scams for seniors. We get a lot of seniors, especially during the daytime.”

Watch Parties and Community Learning

The ability to host a GetSetUp watch party for up to 60 people is a game-changer. 

“...I’m thinking of walking people through the platform and showing a short demo,” Kendra shared. “Normally, our programs are one to two hours long, so I will play a couple of videos and have a discussion.”

The library also offers a computer lab, loanable laptops, and a “library of things,” making it a perfect setting for group learning.

“So many seniors are asking for computer classes, and they’d really benefit from being able to view lessons at their own pace. People use a variety of devices these days, so we’d probably use the computer lab and have a watch party there, too.”

Supporting Career Transitions and Digital Literacy

Redford Township Library often sees older adults who are preparing for second careers. 

“Yes, they need to learn a lot, like how to use a computer and then take classes online,” Kendra said. “Most of them will use their televisions to access GetSetUp, which is really helpful for comfort and accessibility.”

Megan is also planning to promote GetSetUp through flyers and social media, including resources in Spanish to reach a broader audience. 

“One of my professional goals is to explain more services offered by the library. GetSetUp is really easy to explore, and I love that there are both live and interactive recorded classes. It’s nice that people can pick what works for them.”

Creative Programs and Tech Tips

On a personal level, Kendra loves the art classes

“I like painting, and I want to learn more watercolor. I see that’s trending. The travel classes also look interesting.”

She’s even considering some fun options for group programs to encourage socializing.

 “It would be fun to do virtual games like trivia.”

Kendra appreciates GetSetUp’s user-friendly platform. 

“I like that there’s a high color contrast with the layout; which is really helpful for seniors. And it’s nice to see the teachers along with the descriptions; that visual connection helps people feel more comfortable.”

Michigan’s partnership with GetSetUp has made all of this possible, offering older residents free access to thousands of classes. 

“It’s really nice you have a Medicare Hub, too,” Kendra said. “That’s another great resource for our community.”

Kendra is eager to maximize the opportunity through Michigan’s partnership and hopes the state continues to offer such a valuable program for seniors.

“It’s a great tool that encourages connection and interaction, and we want to help people explore it.”

To learn more about GetSetUp, visit: www.getsetup.com

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