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Tapping of keys and clicking of computer mice aren’t the only sounds in the Gerontechnology classroom. There are also the sounds of patient teachers, eager students and the forging of great friendships. But here, the teachers are students, and the students are residents.

Our innovative Gerontechnology program gives our residents a valuable opportunity to learn computer skills under the instruction of students from Pace University. In June 2006, we honored our first graduating class with a special graduation ceremony. Our resident-students thoroughly enjoyed learning new computer skills as well as spending quality time with their student teachers.

Most people rely on computers to fulfill such needs as making travel arrangements, checking the weather and staying in touch with loved ones through e-mail. It’s no surprise that people are using their computers more today than ever before. However, seniors, the fastest growing population, are often not comfortable with technology. The Gerontechnology program was developed to educate seniors on the use of computers and provide them a sense of comfort in utilizing them.

We are pleased to announce that IBM awarded our program a $35,000 grant for assistive software, services and support materials for our residents with limited physical abilities. Our program also received 10 digital cameras from FUJI Photo Film so that our seniors can email pictures to friends and family.

Martha Revette, a second semester program graduate and UHGC Soundview Apartment resident, addressed her classmates and told them that she entered the program with “fear and trepidation. But I knew I wasn’t the only one. My family told me how proud they are of me. And I’m proud of myself,” she said.

Rose Giannetto, a 91-year-old resident who participated in the first semester program, said that she signed up for it to find a photo of her husband, a WWII veteran. “I also wanted to email my son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter,” she said.

For information on how to participate in the next semester of our Gerontechnology program, please contact Linda Forman at lforman@uhgc.org or call her at 914.632.2804 x223.