Breaking Barriers from the High Desert: How Sherri Uses GetSetUp to Stay Healthy, Curious, and Connected

Breaking Barriers from the High Desert: How Sherri Uses GetSetUp to Stay Healthy, Curious, and Connected
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For Sherri, a retired medical hospice social worker living in rural Moses Lake, Washington, GetSetUp has become far more than just a learning platform—it’s been a lifeline.

“I’m hoping GetSetUp doesn’t get funding shut off for this critical service for seniors,” she said. “What it’s done for me is amazing.”

Thanks to Washington State’s Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) partnership with GetSetUp, Sherri and other older adults in the state have access to hundreds of classes at no additional cost, covering a wide range of topics, including physical health, technology, creativity, and community engagement. And for Sherri, who now faces mobility challenges, the flexibility and accessibility have made a meaningful impact.

A Rural Resident’s Lifeline

Living in the high desert of central Washington, simple tasks like attending a community class used to be a major undertaking. 

“When you’re confronted with mobility challenges, just getting out, getting dressed, finding transportation - it takes forever,” she explained. “An hour-long class would take me three hours of preparation. I don’t need that with GetSetUp. I just try to make sure my hair is combed, and I listen and learn something.”

Sherri broke two bones in her right foot just eight weeks ago and is currently non-weight-bearing. However, that hasn’t stopped her from engaging in meaningful learning, fitness, and social interactions from the comfort of her own home.

Rebuilding Physical, Mental, and Intellectual Health

Sherri replied without hesitation, “Oh god, yeah,” that GetSetUp has helped improve her health and well-being. 

“Physical activity, mental health, intellectual engagement, there’s such a broad range. It’s like going to senior high school with my own choices for electives all day.”

Sherri not only enjoys cooking classes and tech tips like iPhone tricks and organizing your photos, but also classes focused on physical health:

“The exercise classes are for a wide range of people, from those with no disabilities to those with limited mobility. Finding classes like that is hard—especially when you used to be highly athletic and now find yourself challenged.”

She also appreciates the flexibility of the schedule. 

“There’s almost always something available. Some of my friends are night owls, but I’m an early morning person, and I love that I can choose what fits my day.”

Discovering Community and Favorite Guides

Sherri loves the Guides who teach with clarity and patience. 

“Some of the Guides are outstanding,” she said. “Bob, Wade, and Cindy stand out, especially for tech-focused classes. I keep forgetting certain things, so I go back and review.”

When she can stand on her feet, she also joins cooking sessions. 

“Pilar’s classes, those simple and focused meals, are great when I can get up and cook.”

One class she particularly enjoys is the Friday community-led photography group. 

“Everyone’s live and looking at their photos. It’s interactional and fun.”

Confronting Tech Fears and Growing Past Them

Before GetSetUp, Sherri was hesitant about tech.

 “I’m certainly not a computer nerd,” she laughed. “I’ve learned everything I know about my smartphone and iPad from GetSetUp or Senior Planet. People buy these things and take them home, especially seniors, and they’re afraid. It’s huge to get over the fear of pushing buttons and losing things.”

She’s learned not only how to navigate her devices but also how to protect herself online,

 “I’ve learned a lot about scams, and that’s important. It’s empowering.”

While she recognizes the broader benefits of AI. 

“I worry about scams now that AI can replicate voices and faces. But I’m also pleased that AI is helping read X-rays and reduce diagnostic errors. It has a place, it just needs to be safe for seniors.”

What Makes GetSetUp Special

For Sherri, GetSetUp is more than just an online platform; it’s a multi-dimensional wellness tool.

“It’s physical health, mental health, and intellectual health. If you don’t keep your brain active, it turns into a raisin,” she said. “And even if you’re dealing with disabilities, your mind can still learn.”

While she appreciates other platforms like Senior Planet, she feels GetSetUp is more focused. 

“If you know where your problem is, you can get help on GetSetUp by watching the class. The topics are clearer and more direct.”

And whether she’s joining live to ask specific questions or watching replays at her own pace, Sherri’s grateful: 

“This is a critical service for seniors. It needs to continue.”

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