For older adults experiencing social isolation, technology can significantly enhance their quality of life. With just a computer or smartphone and a handful of apps, they can access entertainment, information, games, community connections, and even forge new friendships. However, nearly 22 million older Americans find themselves on the "wrong side" of the digital divide, trailing the general population's technology use by significant margins, as highlighted in research by Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), a charitable affiliate of AARP.

An Online Social Lifeline 

Founded in 2004 by Tom Kamber and a dedicated group of volunteers, OATS embarked on its journey with a clear mission: to harness the power of technology to change the way we age. What started off as a free 10-week course in a Brooklyn housing project quickly expanded, and in 10 short years, the organization delivered more than 10,000 class sessions at over 70 partner sites through its flagship program, Senior Planet. In 2013, OATS launched its first Senior Planet center in Manhattan - marking the opening of America's first technology-themed community center for older adults. Nearly 15,000 older adults visited the center in the first year! In 2021, OATS officially became a charitable affiliate of the AARP family.

“We know that not only is access to technology key to fighting seniors’ social isolation – providing technology training and support increases the likelihood of deepened connections and can diminish loneliness,” says Alexander Glazebrook, OATS VP of Program Operations. The organization’s research found that older adults who engage with a technology course from Senior Planet were more likely to form new connections or expand their social circles through their smart devices.

Volunteering to Help Others Connect

OATS also offers meaningful volunteer opportunities. When Lynne Jefferson, 70, from Brooklyn, New York, was looking for a new volunteer opportunity last year, she discovered that Senior Planet needed someone to volunteer at the reception desk at its New York City location. Upon arrival, she knew this was the place for her.

“I like that the seniors who come here want to be involved, want to learn. They come with their walkers, canes, access-a-ride – it doesn’t matter – they get here. They want to know what’s going on and want to feel relevant,” Jefferson says. She adds that the technology trainers are patient and kind. “The trainers here are wonderful because they take their time. By just being the way that they are, it's inviting, and people want to come,” she says. Jefferson typically volunteers at the Manhattan location two days per week.

OATS offers a range of volunteer opportunities through Senior Planet. Volunteers may choose in-person options such as co-hosting classes, providing tech assistance, or greeting and signing in center visitors. Virtual opportunities include co-hosting online classes or contributing to the recruitment and advisory committee. Requirements and skills for each role vary, but volunteers typically need some computer experience, strong communication skills, and a collaborative nature. OATS is also beginning to collaborate with AARP State Offices to train local volunteers to deliver Senior Planet programming in their communities.

Teaching Tech to the Masses

Volunteers like Jefferson play a crucial role in the widespread and effective impact of OATS because they help more seniors gain access to life changing Senior Planet technology courses. A recent study by the organization found that 60% of respondents who received a free tablet "strongly agreed" that they felt more connected to family and friends through their tablets, while 88% of those who took the supplemental Senior Planet technology course felt more connected. Additionally, nearly twice as many seniors in the control group reported feeling depressed compared to those who took the supplemental technology course.

And hearing from the participants clearly illustrates the reason why. After taking a Senior Planet course, Vernell, a class participant, experienced a pleasant surprise. “One of my old friends even surprised me by video calling through Facebook Messenger. I saw her name pop up and thought: ‘What in the world?’ Next thing I knew she was right there! We were crying and screaming and happy. It had been maybe 8 or 10 years since we’d seen each other,” she says. Such connections are truly priceless.

You can view a list of volunteer opportunities with Senior Planet here. To inquire about specific roles, email volunteer@oats.org.