Our Story

Like many seniors, Sheena found herself without nearby family to help her navigate her new iPad. Determined to learn, she teamed up with her friend Irene to start a group where older adults could explore this unfamiliar technology together. And so, the Rockingham iPad Group—now known as Switched on Seniors—was born.

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Initially, Sheena had hoped someone at the group would guide her through using her iPad. Vain hope! Instead, what started with a modest flyer promoting the group and inviting people to “BYO iPad” quickly became a community movement. At the first meeting, 12 people arrived, followed by 18 at the second—but not everyone brought an iPad, as many wanted to learn before committing to a purchase. The group’s first step was to secure funding for shared iPads.

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Under Sheena and Irene’s leadership, the group blossomed. Attendees brought along friends and neighbours, and rather than creating a waiting list, the group embraced a “seniors teaching seniors” model. Those who learned became the teachers, creating a supportive, collaborative learning environment.

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Since its inception in 2012, Switched on Seniors has grown significantly. Around 30 people regularly attend the original group each week, while two additional groups in the Rockingham area support 12–20 participants weekly. Independent groups have also been established across metropolitan and regional areas, continuing the spirit of connection and learning.