With AT&T grant, North Branford Senior Center hosts in-person workshops to help local older adults navigate the digital world effectively.
NORTH BRANFORD, CT —The North Branford Senior Center in conjunction with the North Branford Public Libraries is hosting a series of in-person workshops to help local older adults navigate the digital world more effectively. The workshop program was made possible through $10,000 in support from AT&T.
The program is split into three sessions – one taking place now, one beginning March 18, 2025, and the final one starting May 3, 2025. Each session has six classes. Seniors train on a new Lenovo P12 tablet, and upon completing the program with a perfect attendance, they are allowed to keep the Lenovo tablet and a folio case for free. Those interested in signing up can call Parks & Recreation at 203-484-6017.
“North Branford is very thankful to partner with AT&T to offer this technology course for our seniors,” said Mayor Rose Angeloni. “It's a wonderful opportunity for our seniors to become more comfortable using the Internet and to understand how to avoid the pitfalls of the ever-changing world of technology. This six-week course will provide very useful information in a friendly atmosphere for all who enroll.
“We are grateful to AT&T for this grant which allows this joint effort between our Parks, Recreation and Senior Center and Public Libraries to put on this valuable course on technology for North Branford seniors," said Town Manager Michael Downes. "This program offers instruction on using technology to stay in touch with friends and loved ones, and essential training on avoiding scams, phishing, and other pitfalls associated with online device use. We know it will make an important difference for the seniors in our community who take advantage of it."
According to recent Pew research, about 25% of Americans aged 65 and older do not use the internet, a stark contrast to the general population, where 92% are online. Additionally, only 61% of older adults own smartphones compared to 96% of those aged 18-29. Older adults often cite a lack of confidence in their digital skills and difficulty learning new technologies as significant barriers.
To break down these barriers, the digital literacy workshops include educational programming and are designed to empower older adults with the necessary skills to use modern technology confidently. The workshops cover everything from technology basics to online safety, including tips to recognize and avoid fraud and scams.
"Empowering seniors with the knowledge to navigate the internet safely and effectively is more than just teaching technology—it’s about protecting their independence, security, and peace of mind,” said State Representative Vincent Candelora, House Minority Leader. “In particular, by equipping them with the tools to recognize scams and misinformation, we ensure they can stay connected with confidence and avoid falling victim to online fraud."
This effort is part of AT&T’s initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. Since 2021, AT&T has committed $5 billion dollars to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.
“In today’s world, it’s vital for everyone to have a solid understanding of how to navigate and use the latest online platforms,” said Harry Carey, Director of External Affairs at AT&T. “We’re committed to helping older adults feel more comfortable using technology in all aspects of their lives including healthcare, ordering groceries, making utility payments, connecting with loved ones, or any other day-to-day tasks that makes their lives easier.”
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