Aging with Attitude.

It’s more than a slogan – it’s a way of life. At the Carroll Technology and Innovation Council, we’re aging optimists. Part of that optimism is rooted in the accessibility and understanding of tools that can make aging easier, more fun, and have more possibilities. And, aging is not just about getting older in years, because as we age, we experience. With that experience comes extensive knowledge and distilled desires; with the addition technology comes greater ability to create outcomes informed by those experiences.

To put that into practice, the CTIC is offering instruction made for and by older adults. The curriculum we deliver is built on learning technology to make progress towards participant’s goals, such as using food delivery software or optimizing the tools in their phone’s health app. As a result, are equipped with the tools and confidence to preserve, access, and expand their skills and information.  

In partnership with the University of Maryland Extension, we work in collaboration with Senior Planet, the flagship program of the national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP. They have designed several workshops, lectures, and courses to meet the unique goals and ambitions of participants. They have a diverse array of subjects with accompanying instruction materials, making it possible for the CTIC to deliver the information the different groups we serve care about.

Senior Planet programs are designed around five impact areas: financial security, social engagement, creative expression, health and wellness, and civic participation. These areas represent opportunities in the lives of older adults where technology can have a transformative effect. In essence, the programming invites participants to learn through technology – instead of just having them learn technology for its own merit and without relevant applications integrated into the instruction.

Senior Planet also offers resources and free online classes in technology, but also in wellness with regular classes such as chair yoga, meditation, and strength and stability. They embrace all that comes with being an older adult in the world today, and strive to deliver news and perspectives that connect  communities and challenge preconceived notions about aging. Every week on seniorplanet.org, we provide original and engaging articles about issues facing older adults, covering topics that directly impact life: healthy aging; avoiding scams; meeting people online; saving for retirement; sex and relationships; and so much more.