Older adults are sowing their oats – or actually OATS – by learning to use and navigate technology.
They are taking part in Older Adults Technology Services – better known as OATS – through The Bean Path on North Gallatin Street in Jackson.
It is a place where older adults can reach their goals learning technology.
“We teach aging with attitude. We make students comfortable, we observe and meet them where they are,” said Erica Archie, instructor and facilitator of the OATS program.
Archie, teaches tech skills such as using computers to adults over 50 years of age
The Bean Path reached out to AARP and received grants for the free program, in which seniors take hands-on computer classes. There are two cohorts each with a Level 1 and Level 2. Currently, Level 1 has 16 participants and Level 2 has 12 participants. Everything is provided to students, all computers and laptops. Classes are held in the computer lab.
Currently the classes are held primarily in the Jackson metro area through the Jackson Senior Activity Service.
OATS’ is a unique program that helps older adults access technology and use it to enhance their lives. Classes are free and held every Tuesday and Thursday morning. The 10-week program meets the growing demand for in-person technology programs and caters to a diverse range of interests and needs among the aging community, offering digital creativity platforms like Canva and fitness and meditation apps like Insight Timer, the iPhone Health App and Google Fit App.
OATS developed the instructor training for students through hands-on learning, modeling or showing students step-by-step and getting their feedback. Students are also taught with workshops, lectures and course curriculum. The classes are five to 10 weeks, and the first graduation was in July. The second cohort graduation of 28 to 30 students will be Sept. 19.
“We teach health and wellness, using Canva, how to stream music and television, using Google, using Gmail, Zoom, Youtube for fitness and we make it fun,” Archie said.. “Students work in groups and research articles.”
For more information, contact The Bean Path at (769) 208-3567,
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