What is Technology Education for Health and Well-being?

This is an offering of technology lectures, workshops, and courses created by AARP's Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) and Senior Planet programs. Johnson County Public Health and the Iowa City Public Library are teaching these classes to community members. All are welcome, but the class offerings are tailored to those who are 55 years and older. Classes are offered in person at Johnson County Public Health and the Iowa City Public Library. 

Iowa City Public Library's offerings will focus on a wide-array of topics, while Johnson County Public Health's lectures and offerings will focus on health, healthcare access, mental health and wellness.

Class Schedule and Sign Up

Iowa City Public Library

Iowa City Public Library offers a broad array of courses through the Digital Media Lab. To find the schedule and sign up, please visit the Iowa City Public Library's Digital Media Lab Senior Planet Webpage. 

The Digital Media Lab is located within the Iowa City Public Library at 123 South Linn Street, Iowa City, IA 52240. 

Johnson County Public Health

To view and sign up for upcoming courses, lectures, and workshops that you are interested in, sign up online using the form.

Upcoming Courses

MyChart

You can also sign up by emailing [email protected] with your name, class you want to sign up for, and the date of the class. If you have trouble signing up, you can call 319-688-5865 for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to class?

Bring yourself to class! We will provide handouts and other materials needed for the class. However, there may be rare instances where you need to bring a device of your own. Pay attention to the class details when you sign up. Your instructor will also reach out as a reminder to bring devices if your class needs them.

What information do you collect and why?

We need your name and phone number or email to have you participate in the class. We share this information with Senior Planet only for reporting reasons. They do not share your information with third parties. Reporting to Senior Planet is important to keep this program free. 

What is Senior Planet?

Senior Planet is a non-profit organization from AARP that "is about much more than the latest gadgets, apps, and websites. Our nonprofit organization’s purpose is to enable older adults to come together and find ways to learn, work, create, exercise, and thrive in today’s digital age. Senior Planet programs are designed around five impact areas: financial security, social engagement, creative expression, health and wellness, and civic participation. All five areas represent opportunities in the lives of older adults where technology can have a transformative effect."

Do you offer online classes?

All classes are in person, however, Senior Planet offers online classes that you can register for through their website. 

Class Descriptions

Johnson County Public Health will often host health-related courses, such as MyChart. The list of descriptions and offerings is not exhaustive. 

MyChart: Has your doctor or healthcare provider ever mentioned MyChart? Come learn about this electronic health-record portal that works both in a web browser and app. We'll go over how MyChart can help you keep all your health information in one place, communicate with your providers, and have a virtual visit. You'll also learn about the portal's privacy and security features.

Online Health Resources at a Glance: The internet can be an excellent source for learning more about your or a loved one’s health. This presentation will introduce you to the topics and tools offered on two reputable websites, MedlinePlus and Mayo Clinic. You’ll
also learn how to evaluate health-related information online.

Online RX Drug Resources: This lecture offers an overview of useful online drug resources. You’ll learn about MedlinePlus, a reputable website that provides information about the uses and side effects of prescription medications, as well as other health topics. You’ll also learn about GoodRX, FamilyWize, and SingleCare, helpful tools for understanding drug costs, comparing pharmacy prices, and finding discounts and coupons.

Protecting your Medical Info Online: While it can be daunting to create new accounts for healthcare and insurance portals, there are many benefits to doing so. MyChart and other portals make it easy to access your medical records and test results, communicate with healthcare providers, and more. In this session, we'll explore what you can do in these portals and discuss the the robust security features they offer to protect your sensitive information. You’ll also learn tips for keeping your accounts safe, spotting phishing and scam attempts, and increasing your privacy online.