iPads for seniors

The Schreiber Public Library received a special grant from the United Way of Canada to help fund its “Community Connecting and Learning” project. An amount of $7000 was used to purchase a dozen iPads including a few Samsung android tablets which will be made available to residents on a loan basis through the library.

The United Way Emergency COVID Response program is aimed at helping vulnerable people during the time of this pandemic. Seniors and low income families are particularly affected with many not having access to internet or email or in some cases even cell phones.

As further restrictions and lockdowns were enforced, more services closed and were only accessible through electronic means. Having access to technology can help to relieve the feelings of isolation and loneliness some people feel as they face cycle after cycle of lockdowns and service reductions. It can be empowering just knowing that you can still interact with the outside world and see old friends with the use of FaceTime and Zoom and similar apps on these devices.

Residents can book a tablet on a monthly basis free of charge and must sign a waiver in advance. The library also provides basic training on the use of the tablets and there are monthly online meetings where people can discuss problems and tips and help other members to make better use of the devices. 

The idea for the project came about based on a previous program the library offered in co-operation with the adult learning centre where seniors were offered refurbished computers to aid them in developing computer literacy skills. All tablets in the program have been equipped with screen protectors and cases and are disinfected upon return.

The response thus far has been overwhelmingly positive with one resident saying it gives her something new to learn. Most agree that having access to this technology has increased their confidence and being able to reconnect with loved ones gives them hope for the future. Instead of feeling left out and abandoned, they are now embracing this new way of communicating and are able to feel a sense of accomplishment knowing that they are never too old to learn a new skill.