Learning Has No Age Limit
Updated: 2 days ago
Scheduling a medical appointment. Applying for benefits. Checking a bank account. Planning a bus trip. Receiving an emergency alert.
More of these essential tasks now require a smartphone, computer, or internet connection. For someone who was never taught how to navigate the digital world, everyday life can quickly become difficult, and sometimes inaccessible.
That is what made technology education essential for Venus and Victor.
Venus was frustrated by having to rely on her daughters whenever she needed to complete something online. Through technology classes at St. Barnabas Senior Services, she learned to send messages and photographs, use online banking, and navigate digital tools independently. She has even begun exploring artificial intelligence through Gemini.
Victor spent his working life without needing a computer or smartphone. After retiring, he encountered a world where transportation, government services, appointments, and tickets had moved online. He received his first smartphone only recently and came to SBSS ready to learn.
Their experiences reveal a growing problem: our systems are advancing faster than many people have been given the opportunity to learn.
Providing a device is not enough. Digital access also requires patient instruction, repeated practice, reliable connectivity, and a trusted place where questions can be asked without embarrassment.
Without those resources, older adults may have to depend on family members or others to manage private, essential parts of their lives. With accessible technology education, they can make informed decisions, reach critical services, stay connected, and protect their independence.
Donors and volunteers make this education possible at SBSS. Contributions sustain classes, learning resources, digital access, and individualized guidance for members at every skill level.
Technology will continue to advance. We must ensure that access advances with it.
Your donation can give more older adults the skills and confidence to participate fully in an increasingly digital world.
Support accessible technology education at www.sbssla.org/donate.
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