Meals On Wheels of Solano uses Access to Technology (ATT) Grant to Bridge the Digital Divide among Seniors in California
Introduction
In the realm of senior care, Meals on Wheels of Solano County (MOW Solano) stands out as a beacon of compassion and innovation. Since its inception in 1977, the organization’s mission has evolved beyond providing nutritious meals to seniors. MOW Solano’s commitment to fostering human connections and addressing the challenges of aging has led to a transformative partnership with Claris Healthcare.
Expanding Services: A Holistic Approach to Senior Care
MOW Solano’s journey began with meal deliveries, but its impact has expanded far beyond the dining table. Over the years, the organization has developed an array of services designed to empower older adults to promote aging-in-place with dignity. Services such as case management, the PAWS program for pet support, fall prevention initiatives, and the Senior Connect hotline reflect MOW Solano’s deep-rooted commitment to holistic senior care. Their latest addition, the Claris Companion tablet program which they have termed “Rosey”, introduces true innovation to their mission.
The California Department of Aging’s Access to Technology (ATT) Grant helped boost this program through state funding via Solano County by allowing the Meals on Wheels of Solano to expand the program by an additional 280 tablets.
Technology as a Solution: The Claris Companion Program
The “Rosey” Tablet Program emerged from a partnership with Claris Healthcare, the developers of Claris Companion, a tablet based program designed to combat social isolation among seniors. The stark reality is that one in three seniors lives alone and faces the risk of social isolation, which leads to serious declines in overall health. Claris Companion’s tablet technology bridges the digital divide, offering seniors a safe way to connect with their loved ones, communities, and critical online resources.
MOW Solano’s seniors have had a tremendous start on the program who are using it regularly for exercises, virtual events, games and other activities.
Endorsement from Seniors: A Testament to Success
Seniors who have engaged with the Claris Companion program have shared numerous heartwarming testimonials. One senior eloquently stated, “Rosey is great. I’m really enjoying being on the program, learning how to navigate the system, and having fun at the same time. The buttons are big, and I can easily get to where I need to go.”
Another user of the program shared that “I thought this might be something that my husband would like, but the more I’ve learned about this program, the more I think we’d both benefit.”
These testimonials stand as a testament to the program’s profound impact, dispelling loneliness and enriching the lives of seniors.
Envisioning a Connected Future
As MOW Solano looks to the future, the Companion Tablet Program is poised to be a cornerstone of their vision. By nurturing a seamless integration of technology into their services, the organization seeks to empower seniors to remain connected to their communities and provide a critical lifeline when needed. The program addresses not only the challenges of today but also the long-standing issue of social isolation, providing a bridge for seniors to combat loneliness.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Meals on Wheels Solano and Claris Healthcare exemplifies the power of frictionless technology in senior care. By harnessing the potential of digital connectivity, MOW Solano is not only delivering meals but also paving the way for seniors to cultivate meaningful connections and combat the isolation that can plague their lives. The partnership serves as an inspiration to the caregiving community, illustrating the profound impact that innovation can have on the well-being and happiness of our cherished seniors. In addition to the Meals on Wheels of Solano, the counties of Napa, Kern, Merced, Placer and Sacramento have also started their own Claris Companion programs with support from the ATT Initiative to combat social isolation and loneliness within their seniors communities.
