Those of us who have reached our golden years often wonder where we can go to find resources that will help us live our lives to the fullest. We can seek out resources that will help us to learn more about health and wellness, creative expression, financial security, and social engagement.
Financial security
Among the many ways Senior Planet programs benefit older adults is through financial security. There are many Americans who are approaching retirement without any sort of nest egg to fall back on. This is a problem that the government can address by encouraging financial resilience through workplace retirement plans.
OATS has a unique funding model that incorporates both federal grants and corporate/philanthropic funding. Their courses cover a range of subjects, from basic fitness tech to writing age-proof resumes. They also engage with seniors to design courses that are both fun and educational.
The best part is that they’ve done it all in a way that actually works. For example, they’ve partnered with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection to produce classes on energy costs.
Social engagement
AARP and the Humana Foundation have partnered to build a national movement to get seniors online. The movement includes nonprofit service providers, telecommunications companies, and public sector agencies. Older adults are eager to adopt digital technologies. However, many lack the necessary skills to fully access the benefits of technology.
OATS, a subsidiary of AARP, provides computer and technology training and classes for older Americans. In addition to helping older adults learn how to use technology, OATS also provides technology tools to local organizations.
OATS also operates twenty technology labs for seniors in New York City. It also offers a licensing program that enables older Americans to purchase digital tools. The organization is part of AARP, a leading organization in the area of senior programs.
Creative expression
Using technology to combat aging, Senior Planet is a digital community for older adults. The nonprofit’s programs aim to increase social engagement, civic participation, and health and wellness. They also feature specialized courses that can help seniors develop entrepreneurial aspirations. The program’s free, membership-based curriculum offers access to mainstream digital devices.
Creative expression programs help introduce unique digital ways to express creativity. These workshops offer art-making opportunities and often feature fun ideas. They are a great way for seniors to make new friends and meet other people. Often, the classes include handmade crafts and gift exchanges.
At its first expansion city, Denver, CO, the nonprofit will offer free programs for adults over the age of 60. In addition, Senior Planet will collaborate with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to offer a virtual creative expression experience. The exhibit will send art supplies to participants, who will be encouraged to create art inspired by the Museum’s collection.
Health and wellness
AARP’s flagship program, Senior Planet, combines technology with other smarts to improve the lives of older adults. It offers a mix of online content, structured multi-week courses, and other activities designed to combat the social isolation that ails older adults. The programs are designed to improve health and wellness, as well as civic participation, financial security, and other important areas of life. The center is located at 127 West 25th Street in Manhattan.
Senior Planet is a partnership between AARP and the nonprofit Older Adults Technology Services. The program aims to increase older adults’ digital literacy, improve health and fitness, and enhance financial security. It is free for seniors, with benefits including a membership in a growing digital community. The program is available through a large network of local partner organizations.
Civic participation
Increasing civic participation for seniors can be an important step in improving the lives of those who are 60 years and older. It can also improve their health, financial security and social engagement. By engaging in various activities such as volunteer work, attending meetings, taking part in special events and writing letters, people can address local and global issues that are important to them.
The program aims to empower seniors with digital tools, and encourage them to become more involved in their communities. The national nonprofit OATS from AARP has created the program to address this gap between the way older adults are already aging and the modern tools they need to advocate for themselves. The nonprofit has created an extensive network of local partner organizations. Its programs are available at libraries, senior centers and other community sites.