Connecting seniors to family during the pandemic

ATHABASCA – The Rotary Club of Athabasca donated a total of 10 Chromebook tablets July 13 to two area seniors' facilities to assist residents with staying connected to family and friends during the pandemic.

Natasha Kapitaniuk, the Sergeant at Arms for the club, said Athabasca and Lac La Biche Rotarians got together and saved some money buying the tablets in bulk so that local seniors can video chat with their families, play games and more. 

The 10 tablets for Athabasca cost the club $3,005. 

“This will give them more time to communicate with loved ones,” said Kapitaniuk. 

Kristen Briggins, a recreation therapist at extended care in the Athabasca Healthcare Centre, said they are grateful for the donation of five tablets that will help with quality of life for the residents. 

“We want to express our gratitude to the Rotary Club of Athabasca for donating these Chromebooks to assist with recreational programming and improving residents' quality of life. Technology has been a very useful tool in not only connecting residents to their family and friends in these difficult times, but also providing a unique avenue for recreational programming,” Briggins said in a statement to the club. 

She added that with multiple tablets, residents have the opportunity to more individualized computer time to explore topics of interest, music and more. 

“These uses are just a glimpse of how beneficial these Chromebooks will be for the residents. Again, we would like to say thank you on behalf of the residents of the Athabasca Long Term Care for your generous donation and your community support,” said Briggins. 

Melanie Bownes, a recreation aide at Pleasant Valley Lodge was also moved by the generous donation of five tablets. 

“Thank you to the Rotary for giving the residents the opportunity to keep in touch with family and friends during the COVID-19 pandemic. They will now have the opportunity to explore the web on a Chromebook tablet,” Bownes said. 

Bownes added she appreciates how much the Rotary does for not only the community but for PVL itself. 

“They do a lot for us; flowerbeds and other things. All around they are great for us and the community. We’re so appreciative – it’s awesome." 

Heather Stocking, TownandCountryToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @HLSox