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MiOTA Fall Conference 2026
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Digital Device usage in Older Adults: Best Practices for the OT Practitioner
Saturday October 3, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Danube (50)
The use of technology is highly integrated into many aspects of daily life, habits, routines and occupational engagement. Obtaining skills for technology use has become a necessity for older adults in order to navigate areas such as finances, communication needs and health management. The Occupational Therapy department at Eastern Michigan University collaborated and created a digital literacy training program for older adults within Washtenaw County with the primary goals of: (1) decreasing the technology access barrier among older adults living within the community, (2) increasing proficiency surrounding technology use in order to facilitate aging in place and improve self efficacy, (3) build relationships among intergenerational connectedness. A critical aspect that is addressed includes how to train older adults to interact with technology in a safe and efficient manner. We designed a classroom style curriculum in which we deliver a 10-week, 1 time per week structured course in order for our participants to gain knowledge in how to navigate technology devices as well as internet-based usage. Data was collected using a subjective survey as well as a self-efficacy scale prior to and upon completion of the course which has guided the design of our curriculum. During this workshop, best practices in design, approach, modifications and delivery will be discussed in order to advance the role of occupational therapists with older adults in the area of technology use. This workshop will also discuss the impact of participating in this type of program on young adult tech coaches from a graduate student, individual clinical skill and inter-professional perspective. 


Learning Objectives: 
  1. At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to apply concepts used within a group learning environment that facilitates full and meaningful participation of utilizing new technology devices.
  2. At the conclusion of the session, participants will recognize advantageous suggestions for practitioners addressing needs for older adults within a virtual context
  3. At the conclusion of the session, participants will gain knowledge regarding approaches to designing materials and media that facilitates learning in older adult populations.


References:
  1. Ryd, C., Malinowsky, C., Öhman, A., Kottorp, A., & Nygård, L. (2018). Older adults' experiences of daily life occupations as everyday technology changes. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 81(10), 601–608. https://doi.org/10.1177/0308022618774525
  2. Mitzner, T.L. et al. (2010). Older adults talk technology: Technology usage and attitudes. Computer in Human Behavior, 26, 
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Jones

Alicia Jones

Associate Professor, Eastern Michigan University
Alicia Jones is an associate professor in Eastern Michigan University's Occupational Therapy Program and has been a practicing clinician since 2013. She graduated from Wayne State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy and a PhD... Read More →
Saturday October 3, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Danube (50)
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