AARP Foundation – Connecting to Community

The challenge

One in five older adults is socially isolated. The AARP Foundation asked OATS to develop a pilot program to leverage volunteers to provide training on iPads to low-income, socially isolated older adults.

The strategy

Work with motivated volunteers to provide intensive programming for isolated older adults over a six-month period. Expand and adapt OATS curriculum to focus on social engagement. Provide technology set-up and technical support throughout the intervention.

The solution

OATS developed a six-month program model in collaboration with AARP Foundation staff, including 26 weeks of curriculum modules, training for trainers curriculum, weekly capacity-building calls and emails, and technical manuals and procedures. OATS worked with researchers from Cornell University to design and implement a validated assessment tool, and provided extensive training and support for local site partners at three locations in Washington, DC, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.