The lasting positive impact of the Australian Red Cross Tech Smart Seniors Program.
Case Study
Australian Red Cross and YourLink teamed up to create the Tech Smart Seniors program, which aimed to help older adults in the Newcastle Hunter and Central Coast regions of NSW. The area had been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and floods, leaving many older adults feeling isolated and disconnected. The program was specifically designed to help these seniors, many of whom are in their mid-80s and live alone. The goal was to help them feel more connected and engaged with the world around them.
About the project
Clients received a loaned iPad, data, training, and personalised support from their digital coach. The program also included up to 12 months of technical support from YourLink, a one-on-one phone or online welcome session with a digital coach, and up to three online group training sessions delivered via Zoom.The training sessions were designed to be in a safe,fun, and relaxed learning environment, and clients had ongoing support from Red Cross staff and volunteers for up to two hours per week.
Lasting impact
“Life changing”
“I’m 84 and I know communication is there. I can send an email - I hear it whoosh away and know I'll get a reply. The iPad has opened up a whole new world. Helps me when I live alone. I ask Siri throughout the day how he is!”
“I hadn’t actually seen my sister in 15 years, thanks to the iPad and training I can now video call her and will continue to on a regular basis.“
"I feel more connected with so many more people contacting me. It’s been the most significant change since joining the program."
The project was recognised as a Finalist in theinnovAGEING National Awards 2022.
For those clients that are coming to the end of their 12 month of the program, the results speak for themselves.
100%
feel more connected
100%
would recommend
the program to family
and friends
100%
are more easily able
to access things they
enjoy online
100%
feel more independent
when using technology
Confidence: How would you rate your confidence since participating in the program? (1 being the lowest, 5 being the highest). *No one rated themselves 1
“The Tech Smart Seniors program is a great example of how technology can improve social connections, enhance wellbeing, and promote healthy ageing for older adults. The program combines digital coach training and client training and support to open a whole new world of possibilities for our clients, and it's been a huge success. We’re really proud of the impact the partnership with YourLink has made.”
– Michael Ryan, Regional Operations Manager, Central Coast/Hunter NSW.
Download the case study for more information. For further information about this case study and program, please contact:
Richard Scenna
Founding Director
richard@yourlink.com.au
0408 742 743