How One Goodwin Living Resident Found a New Tech Lifeline
For 81 year old Jean Coyle, finding technology support designed for older adults wasn’t just convenient–it was essential. After a 2024 flood and some health issues forced her to leave her condo she also lost easy access to her “tech guru,” neighbor Rod, whom she relied on for computer support. Jean moved to Goodwin House, a senior living community near her home.
When Jean arrived at Goodwin House, she soon became an advocate for her fellow residents, earning the role of Vice Chair of the Resident Council Executive Committee within a month. She adapted quickly, but one of the most difficult things about the transition to living at Goodwin House came with the unexpected cost of losing her easy access to tech support through her neighbor Rod. She came to realize how much she had leaned on his support, and technology was becoming even more critical to accessing healthcare as she navigated daily life with a serious health condition. Jean lives with progressing pulmonary fibrosis, which requires her to use a rollator with oxygen 24/7. As her mobility decreases, her tech needs grow, whether it be to communicate her needs through patient portals, or to have virtual doctor’s appointments. Luckily, Goodwin Living, the parent company of Goodwin House, had recently partnered with Candoo Tech to provide free virtual tech concierge services to residents.
Jean quickly found a way to make use of the Candoo program to answer her technical questions. At first, she was apprehensive about the virtual-only format that Candoo operates with, but she quickly adapted.
““You’re not one-on-one in person, but you’re really here, and it’s enough””
Now, she says virtual appointments are as close to in person as they need to be “because you can share your screen and show what silly things I may have been doing that led to my questions.” Oftentimes her questions are answered within 5 minutes of a session. She has come to know some of the Candoo staff by name, referencing Christian, Steven and Nelson as her new “tech gurus”. With a team she trusts and tools that bridge the distance, Jean has found in Candoo a reliable lifeline that meets her where she is.
As Vice Chair of the Resident Council Executive Committee, Jean often shares her experiences with neighbors and encourages residents who are struggling with technology to schedule a session. She believes many residents don't realize help is available at no cost through the community.
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, it’s easy to overlook that not everyone has the skills to keep up. Older adults can feel thrust into the deep end and miss out on the ways that technology can enhance their quality of life, because they simply do not have the right support.
Jean’s journey highlights how digital literacy acts as a bridge to wellness, transforming technology into a useful healthcare tool. For Jean, who faces physical constraints, avoiding the “whole production” of an in-person visit is “fantastic when possible.” With Candoo’s support, Jean has become more confident navigating patient portals, managing pharmacy requests, and organizing health-related information so she can make the most of her healthcare appointments. Jean has seen firsthand how fellow residents struggle to get timely tech help, often relying on busy staff or paying out of pocket for external support, which is why she actively encourages them to try Candoo.
While many associate technical assistance with traditional computers, Candoo Tech recognizes that for many seniors, smartphones and tablets are the primary portals to the world. Their support encompasses this entire mobile ecosystem, ensuring no device is left behind. Jean is already preparing a list of smartphone-specific inquiries for her next session, eager to master the handheld tools that keep her connected. A particular point of excitement is her discovery of the Libby app which gives her access to digital library resources. As a lifelong learner, Jean is eager to be able to access books easily and explore what else technology can help her do.
A lifelong learner, Jean earned a PhD in sociology, became an ordained minister, and built a distinguished career as an academic gerontologist. Decades ago, she conducted research at what is now Goodwin House, studying resident well-being. Today, in a full-circle moment, she calls the community home herself.
Goodwin Living residents can access Candoo Tech's virtual tech concierge service at no cost to them. Whether you need help with a smartphone, tablet, computer, patient portal, video call, or a new app, scheduling a session is simple. Older adults who need help with using technology, no matter where you live, can access Candoo Tech’s services. For more information, email support@candootech.com or call us at 646-758-6606.