Thanks to the generous support of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) Foundation, OATS has expanded Senior Planet’s ExploreTech program, bringing innovative, hands-on technology experiences directly to older adults. ExploreTech encourages participants to engage with technology in a welcoming environment that emphasizes shared learning and hands-on exploration.
This new grant from CTA has enabled Senior Planet to introduce virtual reality headsets and Meta Ray-Ban AI Glasses at centers in New York City and Plattsburgh, New York; Miami, Florida; and Denver, Colorado. These physical spaces play an essential role in making new technology more approachable by offering opportunities to experiment, ask questions, and learn alongside trainers, volunteers, and peers.
The introduction of Meta Ray-Ban AI Glasses for testing and integration into programming has been particularly popular among participants. The primary goal of incorporating wearable technology is to help participants become familiar with a newer category of tech in a low-pressure, supportive setting. By seeing, touching, and trying wearable devices with guidance, older adults can better understand how these tools might be incorporated into their daily lives.
The glasses were integrated into programming in flexible and creative ways. Trainers demonstrated features during classes, centers displayed the glasses so participants could explore them up close, and volunteers wore them during their shifts to naturally spark curiosity and conversation. Across all locations, the emphasis remained on hands-on exposure and discussion rather than mastering every feature.
“Participants used Meta Ray-Ban Glasses over several sessions at the Senior Planet center in Plattsburgh, NY. We synced our glasses to Spotify and used voice commands to switch the music, change the volume, and more. Participants also used the glasses and its location specification feature to check the weather and asked general questions — including how much they cost,” said Center Manager Jess Fortin.
At the Senior Planet center in Colorado, this approach extended to a weekly event where participants could try virtual reality experiences with the support of a volunteer, reinforcing that learning new technology can be engaging, collaborative, and enjoyable.
Through the ExploreTech program, support from the CTA Foundation helps ensure that older adults remain active and confident participants in the digital world. By prioritizing hands-on learning and shared exploration, Senior Planet continues to make technology more accessible, relatable, and fun!
