Want to ‘Age with Attitude’? Check Out Senior Planet  

Episode description:

Wherever we go these days, we feel the impact of technology. It’s part of every workplace, in our digital devices, our “smart homes,” cars, virtual reality tools and games, and, of course, the inevitable AI. Sometimes this march of technology feels relentless and overwhelming. And yet, technology is so essential to navigating—and succeeding—in our society that it has become a significant issue for policymakers and advocates, who point to a “technology gap”— a lack of access and resources, especially for older people, who are not digital natives. In today’s episode, I’ll talk with Mario Rubano, a manager for the nonprofit organization, OATS, which stands for Older Adults Technology Services, who will describe their flagship program called Senior Planet.

Senior Planet, a charitable affiliate of AARP, is an incredible resource that offers free courses and programs to help seniors learn new skills and improve their lives through a host of online events and in-person classes in New York City and at locations around the country. Mario will explain how people can access these programs in areas ranging from financial security,  to health and wellness, and civic participation. You can find classes in morning stretch and meditation sessions; programs on online banking and telemedicine; discussion groups that foster conversation and lasting friendships; engaging podcasts, videos and articles; demos of new and emerging technology. Indeed, after listening to Mario today, you’ll learn why Senior Planet celebrates “aging with attitude”—living life to the fullest and enjoying every minute of it, struggles and successes alike.”

Guest description:

Mario Rubano joined Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP in May 2023 as Regional Program Manager—North. In this role, Mario manages in-person operations at the Senior Planet centers located in New York City and Plattsburgh, New York. In addition, Mario collaborates with AARP State Offices, state and local governments, and other entities to bring Senior Planets world-class education to older adults across the northeast United States. Prior to joining OATS, Mario worked at The New York Academy of Medicine’s Center for Healthy Aging where he oversaw a wide range of research and policy projects spanning infection prevention in long-term care facilities, geriatric mental health, Age-friendly Cities, and more. Mario holds a Master of Public Health degree from The City University of New York (CUNY) Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy.

Contact: mrubano@oats.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seniorplanet/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-rubano-1b3b1b14a/