Every day, 10,000 Americans turn 65 years old, and every day, they’re redefining what it means to grow older. At GreatCall, we truly believe that technology is transforming the way Americans age, and have seen its positive impact first-hand. As a company that creates products and services that work together to allow older adults to stay safe, connected and healthy, stories of older adults inspire us every day.
To that end, we recently challenged documentary filmmakers to tell a story to start a conversation about what growing older means in our current culture, and maybe even how technology is impacting that journey. Here is filmmaker Simone Steigler’s thoughts on her take on this subject.
Old Sailor, New Tech
“My father, Richard Sleeper, had my twin brother and I when he was 49 years old. I always had the oldest Dad among my friends, but never thought anything of it because his age rarely showed. He was always running around with us, working on his boats, and taking us out on the water. He eventually, however, wanted to find a less physically demanding job, and technology offered him that. He began taking adult courses at a local college, and soon became a teacher in Computer Aided Design. Today, at 70 years old, he’s sailing just as much as he did when he was in his 20s. Only now, when he runs into trouble – such as being stuck by himself in a lightning storm – he can easily use his smartphone to get himself to safety. When I heard about this video contest, I knew my dad had the perfect story to share about growing older with the ever-changing technology. He was originally not fond with the idea of being involved since my dad refuses to admit he’s old, but quickly came around once told he could talk about his boats. Watch to see how this old sailor embraced technology.”
Have a story of your own to share? Let us know in the comments below! And for more inspiring videos, free caregiving tips and active aging resources, sign up for updates with your email using the box on the right of this article.
