JKV in the News: Celebrating an Emerging Role: Resident Technology Support
CAST’s Scott Code, in observance of Careers in Aging month, lauds the impact of and opportunities in teaching older adults “the language of technology.”
Scott Code, Program Director of Resident Technology at Selfhelp Community services, a LeadingAge CAST Patron was curious to learn how the role of Resident Technology Support has evolved over the years and asked our own Technology Engagement Coordinator, Jason Cook, about his trajectory.
Cook tells LeadingAge he was inspired to pursue work in the field about 10 years ago, when he saw an older woman at the mall staring in confusion at a brand-new iPhone her daughter had just handed to her. He realized that many older adults had never been taught the language of technology, and an entire segment of the population was being left behind.
Cook founded and ran his own tech-support business serving older adults until the pandemic, moved to a technology consultancy, and then came in-house at John Knox Village.
Now, he devotes his energy to making technology more accessible and less intimidating for community members. He offers a variety of classes, covering everything from smartphone basics to navigating the community’s cable system, and introduced virtual reality events, where residents can explore the world from the comfort of the community’s tech center.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is witnessing those ‘A-ha!’ moments when a resident realizes they can see family photos on their phone, have groceries delivered the same day, or video call loved ones across the globe,” said Cook. “The peace of mind this service provides is invaluable.”
Jason Cook, Technology Engagement Coordinator for John Knox Village of Florida instructs resident Benita Ferrara on her laptop during a class.
Technology Engagement Coordinator, Jason Cook, offers one-on-one support and personal technology classes to help JKV’s nearly 1,000 independent living residents navigate technology on their devices.
We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.
