Technology is no longer simply about smartphones, computers and the latest gadgets. Increasingly, it is becoming a tool for living more independently, staying active, connecting with others and finding new ways to overcome challenges.
That broader role of technology will be the focus of a special VillagesOKC Positive Aging: “Day Long Technology Focus” on Sept. 10 at the Conference Center at Metro Technology Centers, 1900 Springlake Drive, in Oklahoma City.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with registration and a vendor fair beginning at 9 a.m. A box lunch and additional vendor opportunities will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Organizers say the program is designed for people who may be curious about technology but aren’t necessarily interested in becoming technology experts.
“Technology can sometimes feel like it is moving faster than we can keep up with,” said Julie Davis, event organizer. “Our goal is to replace some of that uncertainty with curiosity and help people discover technology that can make their lives a little easier, healthier, safer or more connected.”
The morning session, “Technology in Our Everyday Lives,” will focus on technology people can use today. Presenters will demonstrate how apps communicate and work together, smart-home technology, fitness technology and other practical tools that can support independence and simplify everyday tasks. A variety of presenters will demonstrate what is available, how it works and where technology may fit into people’s lives.
The afternoon session, “Technology Transforming Lives & Industries,” will take a wider look at how innovation is changing health care, rehabilitation, senior living and the lives of people with disabilities. Presenters will share innovations that are helping frontline caregivers spend more time providing hands-on care, creating new possibilities for people with vision impairment, advancing independence for individuals with spinal cord injuries and neurological conditions, and giving people who are nonverbal new ways to communicate.
The lineup brings together presenters with very different perspectives and areas of expertise.
Ronita Smalley, director of programs and services at NewView Oklahoma, brings expertise in serving people with vision impairment. Her perspective will help illustrate how technology can improve accessibility and open new possibilities for people who are losing or living without sight.
Becky Redman, founder of Simply TechWise, specializes in helping people use technology more safely and confidently. Her federally certified Woman-Owned Small Business provides technology consulting and digital literacy education throughout the Edmond and Oklahoma City communities. Redman works with older adults, families and organizations to make technology less intimidating and more useful.
Tim Haws, chief operations officer for The 34 Project, offers a perspective from adaptive fitness and strength training. The nonprofit organization creates opportunities for people with physical challenges to improve strength, mobility and independence, making Haws a natural voice for discussing the intersection of technology, fitness and rehabilitation.
Sara Robinson-Holmes, the Associate Vice President of Membership and Healthy Living for the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, oversees membership engagement, retention, and wellness initiatives that help individuals and families connect, grow, and achieve healthier lifestyles.
Danny Eischen, CEO of Concordia Life Plan Community, brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in senior living. His perspective connects technology with the changing environment of aging — including how innovation can support residents, caregivers and senior living professionals.
Throughout the event, attendees can meet vendors, explore products and resources, ask questions and see technology in action.
Some of the innovations may sound futuristic. Others are already becoming part of daily life. The goal, organizers say, isn’t to persuade everyone to adopt every new technology. It is to encourage people to remain curious about what is possible.
The Positive Aging Day Long Technology Focus is open to anyone interested in learning more. Registration is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and includes the vendor fair and lunch. Registration is available at www.villagesokc.org/positiveaging or by calling (405) 990-6637.