GAINING NEW WAYS TO COMMUNICATE

The JFS Tablet Learn & Loan program offers older adults without access to a computer or the internet a new way to connect with others. The tablets are equipped with data and pre-loaded apps and ready to go.

One program participant, Rita, shared with us how the program has transformed her life over the past year.

“When I met you a year ago I was a little depressed, and still thinking about my husband who had passed away. This program gave me something to do and a way to communicate with other people. I learned how to be in touch with my relatives in Israel, how to listen to music, and how to connect with other friends.”

In addition to increasing her ability to connect with loved ones, Rita is also using the tablet to improve her selfsufficiency in her daily life. In her apartment building, the only way to communicate with maintenance is online. Rita is proud that she can now put maintenance requests for her own apartment. “It was a big help.”

When they enter the program, seniors are matched with a volunteer Tech Mentor who supports their learning. Together, they set goals and work at the client’s pace. Rita raves that her volunteer was truly wonderful. “My volunteer was great and taught me so many things that I asked to learn. It means so much to me that I had a volunteer who was so patient.”

“This tablet program has been the best thing that ever happened to me in Canada. This was truly a beautiful program and I feel so lucky! To everyone at JFS who helped me, I am so grateful from the bottom of my heart.”

To learn more about the Tablet Learn & Loan program, contact Samara Bordan at sbordan@jfsvancouver.ca.