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An Age-Friendly University (AFU) assists with technology learning and social engagement among older adults and individuals with developmental disabilities.

Authors :
Stanley JT
Morrison LB
Webster BA
Turner JR
Richards CJ
Source :
Gerontology & geriatrics education [Gerontol Geriatr Educ] 2019 Apr-Jun; Vol. 40 (2), pp. 261-275. Date of Electronic Publication: 2019 Feb 01.
Publication Year :
2019

Abstract

As an Age-Friendly University (AFU), University of Akron is striving to support lifelong learning. A collaborative research effort developed between aging researchers at the university and a government-sponsored pilot program aimed to provide learning opportunities for older adults (OA) and engagement for individuals with developmental disabilities (IDD). The present study assessed the success of a pilot program to increase comfort with technology and community engagement. OA and IDD participants met twice a month for 9 months to discuss how to use technology (e.g., an IPad). We assessed satisfaction, perceived changes in comfort with technology, perceived changes in connection with others, and motivations for participating with questionnaires and a structured interview. On average, participants reported very high satisfaction with the group, and moderate increases in comfort with technology and how connected they feel to others as a result of participating in the group. The most common motivations for participation were related to values, strengthening social ties, seeking to learn, and bringing joy to others. These findings suggest that the pilot was successful at improving community engagement. The involvement of the university in the assessment of this pilot program situates the university as an age-friendly partner for community efforts to support lifelong learning.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1545-3847
Volume :
40
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Gerontology & geriatrics education
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
30707650
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/02701960.2019.1572009