Jeff Trout, Supervisor, Technology Learning Center, Cape May County Library: Empowering Seniors through Technology Savvy

The Big Idea:

●      Jeff Trout, Supervisor of the Technology Learning Center at the Cape May County Library, helps ensure that seniors are not left behind when it comes to technology. Jeff built innovative, free programs that empower seniors to use available technology in their everyday lives. These skills are helping seniors avoid financial scams, connect with family and friends, access benefits, and help cut down on unnecessary trips by doing more online.

Background:

●      Research shows that three-quarters of seniors need someone else to set up their electronic devices. There are around 8.7 million cases of elder fraud each year in the U.S.

●      The older generation is growing, and some are taking on new responsibilities. They have worked hard making New Jersey great. Unfortunately, they are often left behind when it comes to technology, and services offering to help can become predatory, often overcharging for unnecessary updates.

●      The Cape May County Library provides free technology assistance, classes and programs geared at helping seniors understand and operate technology. Seniors can get free advice about creating passwords, safeguarding their online information, and recognizing potential online scams.

●      The programs have helped seniors learn how to use video conferencing to see far-away family and friends and apply online for benefits like Social Security – saving them lengthy and sometimes difficult in-person trips to crowded offices.

●      Jeff and his team have also helped seniors use 3D printing to save time and money! One senior used the 3D printer to make an adaptive wheelchair joystick for a handicapped relative that can be operated more easily with a wrist or elbow. Another was able to print a replacement part for a vintage ice box, keeping the appliance usable.

●      Jeff is also partnering with Rutgers University to host a new technology program for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. This course will teach specifics about how to keep kids safe online, understand different social media platforms, and use tools to limit and monitor screen time.

●      The Cape May Library’s Technology and Learning Center has programs for everyone. Beyond its work with seniors, the center has helped small businesses pilot successful prototypes and engaged children and students in learning about computers, robotics, 3D printing and even digital finger painting.

Fun Fact:

Jeff grew up in South Dennis, New Jersey, across the street from the town’s local library director. He was an avid reader from a young age and always wanted to work at a library. Jeff was first introduced to technology in fourth grade when his school librarian introduced computers to students.

Their Take:

Jeff Trout

“In our digital age, everyone deserves the benefits of tech literacy. I’m grateful to be honored in JumpStart Jersey and I want this story to motivate other libraries across the state and the world to emulate our approach and help empower seniors to use technology.”

-  Jeff Trout, Supervisor of the Technology Learning Center, Cape May County Library