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Forestdale (2024) Print
2024 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Digital Connections
└ Digital navigation skills
└ Digital navigation skills
In Southeast Queens, many older adults face a digital divide that limits access to health care and social connection. Forestdales Baby Genius program paired older adults with tech-savvy youth for hands-on training, teaching skills like texting, email attachments and app downloads. Ten youth tutors worked with 50 older adults in one-on-one sessions, while workshops and events reached more than 700 participants. The program reduced isolation and built confidence, enabling older adults to use telehealth and connect with family. One participant said learning to video chat with her daughter using her phone was "life-changing," and demand for more sessions continues to grow.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Meridian, ID
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Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: A dedicated computer lab with public computers and monthly classes will be established at a Senior Center. Hands-on support will help older adults use email, telehealth and online services.
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AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2026
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
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International Falls, MN
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Digital navigation skills
Description: Older adults in rural Koochiching County lacked devices and digital skills, leaving them isolated from health care and social connections. The project offered free laptops and classes on basics and online safety, with additional laptops purchased for future sessions. Participants now use technology for telehealth, work and staying connected. One woman said, "Now more than ever, I need to be in contact with my friends... I video chat weekly and use my provider's online portal," explaining how her new laptop was vital after losing her son.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
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