I’m one of the “techy” volunteers in my senior community, helping harness technology to make our lives better. I proudly identify as one of the founders of our resident website. A decade ago, we replaced paper reminders of events, menus and news with an online presence. Though the website was designed and is serviced by professionals, it is our senior volunteers who update it with what’s happening, often within minutes. We charted the arrival of computers in our community using website statistics; the website gave motivation for residents to accept the gifts of iPads and PCs from children anxious to communicate via email. For several years, there would be a flood of new website sign-ons each January. Now, residents arrive expecting such technology—a testament to how rapidly times have changed.

COVID’s isolation gave rise to the miracle of online, real-time communication via Zoom. During those months of physical separation, residents learned to use their computers to participate in community programs and events. The isolation has ended, but the use of Zoom continues—now providing program access to those whose needs or preferences are to watch from home. I happily serve as “Zoom host” for those programs, yet another notch in my “techy” belt.

In the first few years of my residency here, we techys spent hours helping neighbors get online. Recently, our administration recognized the benefit (and exhaustion) of our assistance and hired a full-time staff member to provide that support.  Another sign of the times; having computer support is a competitive advantage for senior community marketing. A good thing, but a loss of volunteer identity and purpose as well.

Today, Zoom sent an announcement of an update and a name change. In giant capital letters, Zoom proclaimed Zoom Workplace is now “providing an AI-powered collaboration platform to reimagine teamwork.” What? Suddenly I am a foreigner in a land where I do not speak the language.

Life for seniors is filled with letting go. It appears as though my pride in being a techy must soon be let go too. Those who keep up with AI (artificial intelligence) and think in terms of “collaboration platforms” and “reimagined” teamwork live in a land and time I can only imagine. I sadly yield my techy title to them.