The "STEAM 'Smart Elderly' Activity at Elderly Home (cum staff training)" was successfully held on March 28, 2024, organized by the Lingnan University STEAM Education and Research Centre in collaboration with Fu Tai Elderly Home and the Hong Kong Old Age Nursing Association Limited.
On that day, a team of dedicated staff members from the Lingnan University STEAM Education and Research Centre visited Futai Elderly Home with a focus on digital living. They brought along engaging teaching aids such as Apple iPad tablets and robots, providing the elderly residents with an immersive experience of STEAM concepts.
The session began with an introduction by the staff members, who introduced the elderly learners with the practical functionalities of iPad tablets in their daily lives. They specifically highlighted the Bluetooth feature, which would be utilized in upcoming activities. The participation and enthusiasm displayed by the elderly students were remarkable, as they actively engaged and expressed their willingness to explore various features.
(Staff members conducting informative explanations)
The class progressed to the hands-on segment, where the staff employed teaching props to guide the elderly students in operating the Bluetooth feature on their iPad tablets. With the supportive assistance of the staff, the elderly learners confidently maneuvered the devices themselves.
(Elderly students actively using iPad tablets)
After gaining initial familiarity, the staff members assisted the elderly students in connecting their iPads to individual robots. The elderly learners were thrilled by these remarkable and novel devices, eagerly exploring diverse functionalities and gameplays. Subsequently, the staff led the elderly students in experiencing a range of captivating robot games, ensuring an enjoyable and engaging experience for everyone involved.
(Staff members providing guidance during robot game sessions)
Lastly, the staff members summarized the key takeaways from the class and elucidated the practical benefits that these electronic products can offer in the daily lives of the elderly. They encouraged the elderly learners to bravely embrace these technologies, and the response from the elderly students was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their agreement and enthusiasm.
By successfully organizing the "STEAM 'Smart Elderly' Activity at Elderly Home (cum staff training)," the Lingnan University STEAM Education and Research Centre, along with its collaborative partners, Fu Tai Elderly Home and the Hong Kong Old Age Nursing Association Limited, continues to make substantial contributions to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for the elderly population in Hong Kong.