San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)
Annual technology fair for older adults moves online this year
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San Diego Oasis will host its eighth annual Get Connected: Technology Fair for Adults 50+ in a completely virtual format. Touted as the region's largest technology event, the nonprofit anticipates more than 10,000 older adults to attend the free, fourday fair beginning Oct. 20.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, it's more important than ever to get older adults connected to technology. Those age 50 and older are not only in the highest risk category of contracting the virus, but also for isolation and loneliness. One study suggests that prolonged isolation and loneliness is equivalent to and as lethal as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. But when older adults can actively engage, they have a positive attitude and feel more connected and curious to explore the world.
“San Diego Oasis is excited to host our first-ever virtual tech fair,” said Simona Valanciute, president and CEO of San Diego Oasis. “Since March, we moved all of our in-person classes virtual to continue servicing our members, keeping them active and independent as we don't want them to lose momentum. This is the perfect time to host a multiday online event like this to support our tech-curious older adults' venture into the digital world and help integrate tech into their daily lives.”
The event will feature sessions presented by knowledgeable speakers addressing a wide variety of technology-related topics, including social networking, online safety, innovative apps, smartphones and tablets. Attendees will have the opportunity to consult with experts to answer just about any kind of tech question. Opportunity drawings for the chance to win tech-related gifts will be held throughout the event. Day one will kick off with Irwin Jacobs, founder of Qualcomm who will provide opening remarks.
Events like Get Connected spark confidence in seniors to adapt more digital tools to help them use the technology in ways they didn't even imagine. “There's nothing better than seeing our members get excited about learning to maneuver a new device or app. These are skills that will help them stay active and engaged during these difficult times, but most importantly stay connected and close with their friends and loved ones from miles away,” Valanciute said.
The tech fair, which is sponsored by County of San Diego Aging and Independence Services, runs from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 20 to 23. Registration is required. For more information or to register for Class #75, go to sandiegooasis.org or call (619) 881-6262.