A series of free information sessions aimed at empowering older Islanders to learn more about their technological devices is returning for its second year, starting next week.
TechNTalk sessions will be offered in communities across PEI in July and August. At each TechNTalk session, older adults (55 years and over) receive a short presentation about technology and then one-on-one support from student volunteers. The sessions focus on everyday technology like cellphones, tablets, and laptops as well as tips on using social media and the internet.
“From paying the bills, to communicating with loved ones, to keeping track of what’s happening in the community, it is vital that older adults are confident in their use of technology to fully participate in society. These sessions aim to give older adults the fundamental skills needed to communicate effectively in today’s digital world, while helping to reduce social isolation.”
— Minister of Social Development and Seniors Barb Ramsay
This initiative supports the Department’s mission to help seniors age well in place by building digital confidence and independence.
The sessions are delivered by a mix of staff from Social Development and Seniors and younger volunteers with strong technological skills.
Feedback from the last series of TechNTalk sessions was overwhelmingly positive:
- "I felt relaxed with [the volunteer], she was what I needed—someone kind and patient."
- "Appreciate the opportunity and social connection."
- "The volunteers were very cooperative, friendly, and effective."
- "Very grateful that this event is available to those of us who are interested in learning more about technology."
The sessions are free, but registration is strongly recommended.
To view the full list of this summer’s TechNTalk sessions and to register, please visit: TechNTalk
Media contact:
Andrew Sprague
Department of Social Development and Seniors
asgsprague@gov.pe.ca
TechNTalk Schedule (Dates for Souris and O’Leary sessions to be confirmed)
- Thursday, July 10 in Montague from 10am to 12pm at the Cavendish Farms Wellness Centre (21 Sullivan Lane, Montague PE)
- Tuesday, July 15 in Cardigan from 10am to 12pm at the Cardigan Village Office (358 Shore Road, Cardigan PE)
- Thursday, July 17 in Crapaud from 10am to 12pm at the Crapaud Community Hall (34 Route 13, Crapaud PE)
- Friday, July 18 in Summerside from 10am to 12pm at the St. Eleanors Lions Club (121 East Drive, Summerside PE)
- Monday, July 21 in Cornwall from 1pm to 3pm at the Town of Cornwall Hall (15 Mercedes Drive, Cornwall PE)
- Tuesday, July 22 in North Rustico from 10am to 12pm at the Star of the Sea Seniors’ Club (11 Sunrise Court, North Rustico PE)
- Thursday, July 24 in Charlottetown from 2pm to 4pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre (100-97 Queen Street, Charlottetown PE)
- Friday, July 25 in Summerside from 10am to 12pm at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central Street, Summerside PE)
- Tuesday, July 29 in Wellington from 10am to 12pm at the Place du Village (16 Pondside Drive, Wellington Station PE). The presentation for this session will be delivered in French.
- Thursday, July 31 in Montague from 10am to 12pm at the Cavendish Farms Wellness Centre (21 Sullivan Lane, Montague PE)
- Tuesday, August 5 in Tignish from 10am to 12pm at the Centre Acadien de Prince-Ouest (119 DeBlois Road, Tignish PE)
- Thursday, August 7 in Charlottetown from 2pm to 4pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre (100-97 Queen Street, Charlottetown PE)
- Friday, August 8 in Summerside from 10am to 12pm at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central Street, Summerside PE)
- Thursday, August 14 in Alberton from 10am to 12pm at the Alberton Public Library (11 Railway Street, Alberton PE)