Heliopolis Elderly Center

In March, we began a new program, the Technology Connection Project, here at the Heliopolis Center. Our Technology Connection Project aims to bring knowledge of digital technology, which is so important to help seniors maintain the opportunity of living in the present moment… Now that we have been put in social isolation because of the COVID 19 pandemic. 

The project was slowly phased in through special training for the Heliopolis Center professionals, and later we implanted the Technology Connection Project as a direct activity with our 160 Seniors. For a month, the social educator at the Old Friend Institute trained all of our counselors at the Heliopolis Elderly Center to support the execution of digital inclusion classes. 

The Heliopolis Center is an Old Person's Center that helps seniors. Our first challenge was to demystify the fears and preconceptions regarding the use of cell phones. Many Seniors believe that they do not have the capacity to learn about smartphones, technology, computers, and even how to make a simple video call via an app can be a huge challenge for them. 

During the past months, we focused on working on the sensitivity for these classes. Our goal through planning and logistics was to reach a total of 70% of Seniors at the Heliopolis Elderly Center by the end of the year. We have been focusing on working with up to 10 Senior men and women just for activity modulation. Classes have taken place once a week with good advances, and our seniors have been using technology appropriately. They have participated with great effectiveness - especially in our distance call activities.  

These classes still potentialize the volunteer activities that have been going on online, called “Hello Friend,” by giving autonomy to our seniors so they can participate in the actions and proposed activities. So far, the contents of cell phone settings have been worked on, and WhatsApp and video calls. One of our participants, Francisco, said, “In every class, I learn something new; it's been so essential to me this course, thank you very much!” That is what Mr. Francisco had to say about his WhatsApp video conference classes. 

The "Old Friend Project" is working hard every day to keep our Seniors mentally healthy during these difficult times, and we are so very grateful for all of your support!