Tech-Savvy URI Students Help Seniors Master Their Cell Phones

University of Rhode Island (URI) students are helping seniors use cell phones and other digital tools through the Cyber Seniors program, reports the Warwick Beacon . The program has about 10 to 12 sites across Rhode Island, with five students from URI. Many students and adults "see it as a need," says URI Professor Skye Leedahl. Cyber Seniors engages URI students enrolled in the Pharmacy program or doing independent study, and participants are required to complete 40 service hours to earn academic credit for their classes. Enrollees receive a binder of information that gives the fundamentals of technological devices and accompanying features like the Internet, and games that promote mental health. The binder also highlights the advantages of being able to be in contact with loved ones, and safety features and practices when online. Information on the Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program, which provides phone and wireless communication devices for disabled individuals, is included as well.