STAR Tech: Seniors Thriving During Lockdown

Prior to COVID-19, STAR launched an innovative program to help seniors get connected online. The STAR Tech program offers one-on-one training and new Tablet for seniors to get started with using technology in their daily life.

Jill, a STAR Tech participant, uses her tablet to participate in ZOOM meetings with her church group. She also uses Facebook and email to stay connected with family. During the COVID-19 lock-down, the STAR Tech program has helped Jill stay connected and learn new skills. Jill says, “It has meant so much to me to reconnect with my friends even though I could not meet them in person”.

With the help of a team of volunteers, the program has been overwhelmingly successful. Daryl is one of the STAR Tech volunteer trainers. Daryl says, “I admire their ability to learn to use new tools, and then take it a step further. One client uses the tablet with a Smart TV and another client connects to a radio app.”

During the lock-down period, many of the workshops were temporally postponed. Daryl and many other volunteer trainers now support participants at home.

STAR Tech participant, Carol said, “Joining STAR Tech has given me the confidence to learn about the Internet at my own pace. I know help is only a phone call or email away. Thanks to all the volunteers for their support and patience. I would have felt very isolated during the stay at home due to COVID-19.” 

STAR Tech is currently available to for those aged 65 or over or aged 50 or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, living in Ipswich and Redlands including SMBI and North Stradbroke Island. Please call 3821 6699 for more information.

Posted in STAR Newsletter; Tagged starnews, startech; Posted 3 years ago by STAR Marketing