Jeanie Rubio’s cellphone died unexpectedly. “I’m a minimalist when it comes to technology,” said the longtime Harpswell resident. “I keep it at bay.” However, Rubio worried about what would happen if her 10-year-old iPad died.
Rubio reached out to Gayle Hays, with Harpswell Aging at Home. Hays, in turn, connected her with Alvin Stearns, a volunteer with HAH’s Technology Assistance program. Stearns, who works full time in the legal field, helps older residents navigate the mysteries of technology and devices. He takes a simple approach to put clients at ease. “I tell people, ‘Don’t be afraid of it. It’s a tool. What do you want to do with it?’”
For those new to technology, Stearns asks about their interests and needs. What kind of device are they interested in using? What would they like to access? FaceTime, email, social media, other applications? He helps them understand how technology can benefit them to the extent they are comfortable.