As part of a new programme to reduce incidents of social isolation and open up a new world of communication, over 30 older citizens from across County Limerick have been presented with special tablets designed specifically for the elderly.
The specially designed Acorn tablet is the idea of Age Friendly Limerick, which is co-ordinated by Limerick City and County Council, in partnership with Cliffrun Media. The hope is that the device will help reduce the levels of social isolation in older people in the county.
The specialised tablet, tailored to address the needs of seniors in a closed secure network with the hope of opening up a new world of online content for elderly people in an easy to use way. The design of the Acorn tablet is built around five content and application pillars: Independence, Health, Finance, Communications and Security.
Recently a workshop was held by Limerick City and County Council where over 30 senior residents of the county were presented with the tablet and shown how to navigate it.
Speaking of the new Acorn tablet, Deputy Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Michael Collins said: “I am delighted to welcome this project today spearheaded by Age Friendly Limerick. In a world, which is becoming more technology driven, it is important that we support and encourage our older citizens in embracing the digital world. It is fantastic that we are using technology to help make people fell less isolated. I’ve no doubt all those involved will gain something from it and I wish them all every success”
Anne Rizzo, who is the Programme Manager with Age Friendly Limerick added: “The Acorn is a very user friendly tablet, designed to open up a world of digital services for older people and is aimed at encouraging social inclusion, putting people in contact with others in their community and helping them to avail of services and information not otherwise easily accessible to them.”
“There will be ongoing evaluation over the course of the trial period with participants having the option to keep the tablet at the end of the trial period and taking on the internet costs themselves.”
