Intergenerational Relationships and Healthy Aging: Building Networks of Support

By creating meaningful connections, sharing caregiving responsibilities, and developing community-based solutions, communities can help older adults lead fulfilling lives.

By Athena Chan on March 14, 2025 9:45 am

Aging is a universal experience, and the need for strong support systems has become more crucial. “It takes a village to support older adults” is particularly relevant when discussing aging, as older adults benefit greatly from shared responsibility in emotional, social, and instrumental support. Whether through family, friends, or community programs, fostering strong networks can significantly impact the well-being of aging individuals.

The idea that a collective effort is needed to care for older adults aligns with traditional values found in many cultures. Historically, extended families lived together or near one another, ensuring that older family members received care and companionship. However, many older adults live alone or in facilities far from their families today. Without a strong support network, they may struggle with loneliness, mobility issues, and emotional distress.

A community-oriented approach can help address these challenges. Family members, neighbors, and volunteers can offer assistance with daily tasks, transportation, and social engagement. Research has shown that older adults with strong support networks experience fewer mental health issues and a greater sense of belonging. Programs like AARP’s Community Connections help older adults find local resources, meet new people, and participate in activities that improve their quality of life.

Interestingly, studies have found that older adults aged 50 and above who own pets with limited social connection with family or provide care for family members report higher levels of depression and lower self-rated health compared to those non-pet owners with limited social connection with family members outside the household. While caring for loved ones can be fulfilling, it can also be stressful and physically demanding. This highlights the importance of shared caregiving responsibilities and ensuring that older adults receive support rather than bearing the burden alone.

On the other hand, older adults who maintain strong family ties and close relationships across generations tend to report better overall health and greater life satisfaction. A study from the National Institute on Aging found that older adults who regularly interact with family and friends have lower rates of depression and cognitive decline. Encouraging family connections, whether through weekly calls, visits, or shared activities, can foster emotional stability and overall well-being.

Addressing isolation and loneliness through intergenerational programs

One of the biggest challenges older adults face, particularly those who live alone or have lost a spouse, is social isolation. Loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, dementia, and other health concerns. However, innovative intergenerational programs are helping to bridge this gap.

Increasingly, universities and community organizations are pairing college students with older adults for mutual benefit. These programs allow students to gain valuable life lessons and wisdom while older adults experience companionship and a renewed sense of purpose. For example, The Big & Mini Project connects older adults with young people through video calls, creating meaningful friendships that reduce loneliness and improve mental well-being. Similarly, NYU’s Aging Incubator pairs students with seniors to exchange stories and perspectives, strengthening intergenerational ties. By fostering connections between generations, these programs combat loneliness and create a more compassionate and inclusive society where people of all ages feel valued and supported.

The psychological and social benefits of intergenerational relationships

Research has consistently shown that strong intergenerational ties can mitigate stress, enhance psychological well-being, and promote purpose in life. Meaningful social engagement helps older adults maintain cognitive function, improve their mood, and even increase longevity.

In Japan, where the population of older adults is among the highest globally, intergenerational programs are an integral part of society. Initiatives such as Silver Human Resources Centers allow retirees to work part-time in their communities, maintaining a sense of purpose while contributing to society. Other programs, such as intergenerational daycare centers, combine childcare and eldercare, fostering bonds between children and seniors that enrich both groups’ lives.

Strategies for building sustainable, intergenerational aging solutions

Creating strong support networks for older adults requires a collective effort from communities, policymakers, and service providers. Here are some strategies to enhance family resilience and promote healthy aging:

Encouraging family involvement: Families should be supported with resources to help them balance caregiving responsibilities. This includes offering respite care, financial support, and educational resources to ensure that older adults receive the best possible care.
Expanding community-based programs: Governments and nonprofits should invest in senior centers, meal delivery programs, and transportation services to keep older adults connected and engaged. Organizations like Meals on Wheels America provide food and valuable social interaction.
Promoting housing solutions for intergenerational living: Many cities are exploring housing solutions that accommodate multiple generations under one roof. This approach allows older adults to receive daily support while maintaining independence. One example of this is the intergenerational home-sharing program in NYC. This program ensures economic security and builds meaningful social connections
Advocating for policy changes: Policymakers must prioritize aging-friendly policies, including accessible healthcare, retirement benefits, and support for caregivers. Countries like the Netherlands have developed progressive models, such as allowing university students to live in nursing homes at reduced rent in exchange for social engagement with older residents
Leveraging technology for connection: With the rise of digital tools, older adults can stay connected through social media, video calls, and virtual communities. Training programs that teach seniors how to use technology can significantly improve their social interactions and reduce loneliness. Platforms like Cyber-Seniors help older adults learn digital skills while connecting with younger mentors.

As you can see, intergenerational relationships and strong support networks are necessary to promote healthy and happy aging. By creating meaningful connections, sharing caregiving responsibilities, and developing community-based solutions, communities can help older adults lead fulfilling lives. As populations age, it is critical to adopt sustainable, intergenerational approaches that embrace the wisdom and contributions of older generations while providing them with the care and companionship they deserve.

Photo: Ridofranz, Getty Images

URI program to improve digital competency, engage generations earns national recognition

Cyber-Seniors matches URI students with older adults for tech education, intergenerational companionship

URI students in the Engaging Generations: Cyber-Seniors program help clients navigate through their smart phones. The students work with older adults around the state, helping them take part in the digital world.

KINGSTON, R.I. — Feb. 17, 2025 — A University of Rhode Island program intended to “bridge the technology and generational gap” as students help teach older adults to use technological devices has received national recognition from Generations United, a non-profit organization that aims to improve the lives of children and older adults through intergenerational collaboration.

The organization has named URI’s Engaging Generations: Cyber-Seniors a “program of distinction,” listing it among “an elite class of intergenerational programs that demonstrate excellence in bringing together people of different ages for mutual benefit and positive impact.” URI professor and Cyber-Seniors Principal Investigator Skye Leedahl plans to accept the award at the organization’s international conference in June.

The Engaging Generations: Cyber-Seniors program, based on URI’s Kingston Campus, aims to increase digital competency in older adults while also bringing the gap between generations. The program pairs older adults with URI students to provide training and technical support they need to access online resources, work and meet remotely, and virtually communicate with family and friends. Dozens of students from multiple disciplines—including human development and family science, public health, communicative disorders, and more—travel each week throughout the state to meet older adults in senior centers, libraries, and housing developments to provide technology training on their devices, as well as intergenerational companionship.

“URI Cyber-Seniors continues to be a mutually beneficial experience across the generations,” said Leedahl, department chair and professor of human development and family science. “Students are building communications skills, life skills, and getting the opportunity to share what they know and what they’ve learned, which can boost their confidence on their academic journey. For older adults, it helps them feel part of the digital world. They appreciate being around the students, who help them find information, apps and programs that can enrich their lives. Programs like this really opens doors for them.”

The program is moving into a new phase, providing support specifically for health-related technology, thanks to a new grant from the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging. URI Cyber-Seniors is partnering with the Rhode Island Adaptive Telephone Equipment Loan Program, which provides digital devices for qualified individuals. URI students from various health disciplines will provide training and tech support at facilities such as IN-SIGHT, and AskRI, as well as various libraries and senior centers around the state.

The new phase further expands the reach of Cyber-Seniors, which has shown statistically significant improvements in older adults’ digital competence, technology use, and quality of life, and in strengthening social bonds, according to a study conducted by Leedahl’s team. The URI program has helped participants feel more connected to their communities, increase contact with family and friends, and generally improve their feelings of well-being and overall health.

In previous work, Leedahl and colleagues found participants’ use of technology, as well as their digital competence and comfort level using the devices, increased significantly after being in the program. More than 76 percent of participants reported daily usage of an iPad after having previously never used such a device. Their competence levels—especially using video calls, obtaining information from public authorities or public services, seeking health information, and being able to participate in a telehealth appointment—improved significantly. Many reported feeling less isolated and less lonely after learning how to connect via the devices.

“It has helped me because now I can be involved with other people who are using the tablet or the phone and be in the conversation,” one participant quoted in the study reported. “Before, I just had to sit there, and I didn’t know anything was going on. Now, I can participate.”

“It actually has impacted my mental wellbeing because with FaceTime, I have a friend, my best friend who lives far away, and I was able to see her for the first time in two years. That made me feel really good,” another participant said.

Overall, most participants felt Cyber-Seniors prepared them to utilize the devices, and access online resources on their own. Still, many expressed a desire to continue with the training program to further expand their knowledge and maintain the new connections they’ve established.

“The program provides students meaningful service-learning experience and helps improve digital inclusion among the older population,” Leedahl said. “It is unique in that it meets an important community need for older adults while also building career readiness skills for future professionals. Both generations learn from each other, and they seem to have fun, too!”

Donna Dusell: Still time for senior tech support

Jan 15, 2025

It has been my pleasure over the past year to coordinate Greenfield Community College’s Cyber Seniors program, providing one-on-one support and technology workshops for senior citizens at sites throughout Franklin County. It has been gratifying to hear from participants regarding how this program has addressed a wide range of needs, from learning basic technology skills to navigating challenging smartphone and computer issues.

I also appreciate the city of Greenfield and the Greenfield Senior Center for their partnership with this project. Their work to obtain funding through MA Elder Affairs, and willingness to serve folks within the wider GCC service area, has allowed us to expand support throughout Franklin County from New Salem to Rowe.

The grant was scheduled to end as of Dec. 31, 2024, but we have been allowed to use unspent funds to extend services through February and are currently able to offer 10 hours per week of individualized support. Because we are in the process of winding down, we have shifted most services to the GCC campus. After February, we will be able to offer very limited support through GCC’s Community Engagement works study program, and we are hopeful that we will be able to once again fund a more robust program later in the year.

If you are a senior citizen who would needs tech help, I encourage you to visit engage.gcc.mass.edu/seniors/cyber-seniors/ or call 413-325-3195 to set up an appointment.

Donna Dusell

Greenfield

Sierra Gold Senior Center Partners with Cyber-Seniors for Technology Education Program

Grass Valley, CA – The Sierra Gold Senior Center, located at 231 Colfax Avenue in Grass Valley, is thrilled to announce a new initiative designed to help older adults develop crucial technology skills. In collaboration with Cyber-Seniors, a nonprofit organization serving California, the center will host an 18-month series of classes tailored specifically to older adults eager to navigate electronic devices and the digital world with confidence.

Starting Monday, November 4, the Sierra Gold Senior Center will welcome community members to an 8-week session held every Monday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. This program is designed to empower participants by building foundational skills across a range of topics, from navigating smartphones and tablets to connecting with Nevada County services.

“Many of us learned our technology skills at work and didn’t use computers at home, and for some, the shift to a more digital world has been challenging,” says Leslie Lovejoy, Executive Director of the Sierra Gold Senior Center. “Our community has expressed a strong need for this type of support, and we’re excited to address that need in partnership with Cyber-Seniors.”

Through a structured curriculum, participants will learn how to use their devices to simplify everyday tasks, such as setting up video calls with family, online banking, social media, and more. The program also includes guidance on accessing essential services like healthcare, Social Security, and DMV renewals—all increasingly conducted online. For those who complete the 8-week course, Cyber-Seniors will provide a $25 gift card and a training certificate.

The Sierra Gold Senior Center serves Nevada County’s seniors and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to technology support, the center offers a range of activities, educational programs, and social services to enrich the lives of local seniors.

Registration and Contact Information: To register for the free technology classes, please contact the Sierra Gold Community Senior Center at (530) 273-4961. All skill levels are welcome, so whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to enhance your tech skills, we’re here to help.

The Best Tech Support Services for Seniors

Lawrence Forbes, Gear
Sep 21, 2024 8:30 AM

If an elder in your life needs help with their computer, phone, email inbox, or smart thermostat, they can bug you for help—or they can call on a dedicated IT professional trained to help seniors.

I love my 78-year-old mother and do whatever I can to help. But when she has computer trouble, she spins into a frustrated tech spiral, starts lashing out, and I want nothing to do with her. The independent woman who taught me to be resourceful by sending me to the dictionary now wants her results the easy way—for me to fix it in seconds—while I see an opportunity to teach her how to help herself. Consequently, we end up bickering.

We aren’t alone. According to the Pew Research Center, there are currently 62 million adults over the age of 65 in the US. That number is expected to reach 84 million—and leap from 18 percent to 23 percent of the population—by 2054. That’s a lot of seniors, and a heck of a lot of tech support.

“Sometimes learning from non-family members works best, because we tend to be more patient with other people,” says Skye N. Leedahl, a professor of human development and family science at the University of Rhode Island. Leedahl performs research as the university’s principal investigator that focuses on quality of life and health issues for older adults. The university has a tech support program of its own, a collaboration with a North American tech-support nonprofit known as Cyber-Seniors.

And that’s not the only such organization. Tom Kamber, the executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) and the Senior Planet educational program at AARP says in an email: “Older people are increasingly using tech for learning about healthy living and medical issues, about finances and professional skills—some are still working—and simply to stay sharp mentally.”

Kamber and a corps of volunteers launched OATS in 2004 to promote digital literacy among our older peers. They achieve it through their Senior Planet program (more below) as well as their advocacy and scholarship. OATS.org offers a glimpse into the organization’s 20-year history, its outreach and connectivity programs, and its online community portal/social network. The website also has an interactive finder that allows you to enter your zip code to find a Senior Planet partner site near you.

And those are just the industry OGs. The good news is there is a wealth of options—some of them are even free. The tech support sites listed below cater specifically to seniors.

Having other tech options is definitely going to help Mom and I. Having a neutral third party iron out her technical issues means I won’t have to resent the pressure of being the resident “tech guru,” and she won’t have to resent my attempts to train her. It should free me up to focus on appreciating the time we have together. Here’s hoping it does the same for you and the seniors in your life.

Senior Planet From AARP

Created in 2015, the novice-friendly Senior Planet website boasts a cohesive compendium of free online content: articles, courses, lectures, demo videos, and workshops aimed at our elders (in English, Spanish, and Cantonese). The offerings range from learning how to use a smartphone to virtual exercise classes to in-person meetups. The premier senior destination served upwards of half a million people last year and shows no signs of slowing down; they even have their own podcast. The organization started with one in-person location in New York City and now boasts satellite locations in North Country, New York; Montgomery County, Maryland; Denver; San Antonio; and Miami. Virtual one-on-one training—via Zoom—is also available.

Service hours are 9 am to 8 pm ET, Mondays through Fridays; 9 am to 2 pm ET on Saturdays. Email info@seniorplanet.org or call (888) 713-3495.

Cyber-Seniors

Cyber-Seniors was inspired by a 2014 documentary that followed a community of Canadian seniors learning to use the internet for the first time. The North American org (it operates in Canada and the US) offers training and free one-on-one tech support by pairing seniors with student volunteers for an intergenerational experience that both parties learn from. There are volunteers who speak English, Spanish, and French. The site features a newsletter, weekly events calendar, webinar, toll-free tech support, training for volunteers and seniors, merchandise, clips from the movie, and a section dedicated to cybersecurity protection. The organization has North American partners across two-thirds of the continent that have Cyber-Seniors programs (the University of Rhode Island is one of them).

Service hours are 8 am to 6 pm ET. Email scheduling@cyberseniors.org or call (844) 217-3057.

Quincy

Quincy was founded by Ryan Greene while he was a student at Columbia Business School in 2020 to help his grandfather and the other mature adults in his life having tech trouble. Remote tech support sessions are conducted via secured connections and recorded, should you want to revisit them in the future. Quincy also offers fraud protection: A tech support team reviews your emails, texts, voicemails, and social media for con games. There’s even a blog with posts aimed at non-techies. Plans start at $5/month, and the company also offers 14 minutes per month of free support to Medicare recipients

Service hours are 8 am to 8 pm ET. Message Quincy’s staff via the chat support feature on the website or call (208) 557-8466.

Candoo

CEO and creator Liz Hamburg created Candoo in 2019 after having “experienced firsthand the frustration that my parents have felt dealing with technology.” Plans for one-to-one tech concierge support consist of a single one-hour session ($75) or an annual membership ($228/year for singles, $340/year for couples). Support and training are also available in English and Spanish at the enterprise membership level for senior centers, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Memberships also include a free how-to library, videoconferencing tools, online shopping guides, and a downloadable tablet comparison sheet.

Service hours are 9 am to 8 pm ET. Email support@candootech.com or call (646) 758-6606.

The Smarter Service

Started by business partners Terry Dry and Greg Boles as “a personalized tech concierge service for older adults,” the Smarter Service offers its customers personalized one-on-one technical assistance based on the complexity of their digital needs. Customers are assigned the same concierge every time they use the service. In-person training is available in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties in California; Scenic and Scottsdale, Arizona; and Columbus and Indianapolis, Indiana. Support is also available for senior centers, nursing homes, and other retirement communities. Smarter Service offers free consultations to help you pick a plan. Annual memberships start at $125 per month, but other tailored packages are available.

Service hours are 9 am to 5 pm PT, Mondays through Saturdays. Email info@thesmarterservice.com or call (805) 765-8348.

Charter Awards $1.3 Million in 2024 Spectrum Digital Education Grants, Surpassing $10 Million Milestone

Funding to Help 66 Nonprofits Connect Communities with Digital Tools, Resources and Skills Training

Since Launch, Program Has Sponsored 40,000+ Digital Education Classes and Benefited 163,000+ Community Members

STAMFORD, Conn. – Charter Communications, Inc., which operates the Spectrum brand of connectivity and entertainment services, today awarded $1.3 million in grants to 66 nonprofit organizations through its 2024 Spectrum Digital Education program. Since launching in 2017, the program has committed more than $10 million to nonprofits focused on improving digital literacy, workforce development and educational access in unserved and undeserved communities across Charter’s 41-state service area.

“Connectivity is the foundation for meaningful learning, professional growth and human connection, and helps to build strong, thriving communities,” said Rahman Khan, Group Vice President, Community Impact for Charter Communications. “Spectrum Digital Education supports programs that empower community members to enhance their lives with connectivity, from providing digital literacy training to seniors to connecting students with important resources and tools for their education.”

Spectrum Digital Education: Fresh Funding Fuels New and Established Programs

This year, 27 nonprofits were awarded a Spectrum Digital Education grant for the first time, including The Ladder Alliance in Fort Worth, Texas to offer workforce development and computer skills programs to low-income women and survivors of domestic violence; the Community Development YMCA in Long Beach, California in support of its TECH MASTERS program, focused on bringing digital skills to the Cambodian community with courses offered in Spanish and Khmer; and United Fund for Western Orleans County Inc. in Albion, New York to provide free tech tutoring, including scam prevention and internet safety programs, for seniors.

Additional 2024 Spectrum Digital Education recipients include Mapunawai Inc, which has been awarded two grants through the program totaling $45,000. It will use this latest funding in support of its Digital Ready Hawaii (DRH) program, which offers rural residents with little to no computer skills language-specific training and free devices. Code Girls United in Kalispell, Montana, awarded for the second time with total funding of $30,000, will continue its after school program that provides free computer science and coding education to girls in rural and tribal communities. Central Community House of Columbus in Ohio, a five-time recipient with funding totaling $105,000, will use its grant to support the Technology Assistance Project (TAP), a program dedicated to preventing social isolation in seniors by teaching them how to safely navigate the internet, send emails and connect virtually with friends and family.

Celebrating the 66 Spectrum Digital Education Champions

Through direct support of nonprofit partners across Charter’s service area, Spectrum Digital Education has helped distribute over 18,500 laptops and sponsor more than 40,000 digital education classes, benefiting over 163,000 community members since 2017. This year, the program will recognize 66 organizations that help build stronger communities by connecting residents with skills training and access to technology. This year’s grant recipients are:

CALIFORNIA

After-School All-Stars
Community Development YMCA
Cyber-Seniors
Eastmont Community Center
Hope through Housing Foundation
Loaves, Fishes & Computers (LFC)
Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation
Pasadena Senior Center
Plaza Comunitaria Sinaloa
San Diego Futures Foundation

FLORIDA

Heart of Florida United Way, Inc.
Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, Inc.

GEORGIA

Athens Community Council on Aging

HAWAII

Ho’okama I Ka Malama
Mapunawai Inc
Project Hawai’i, Inc.

KENTUCKY

Goodwill Industries of Kentucky
Urban League of Lexington-Fayette County

MINNESOTA

Senior Community Services

MISSOURI

Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas
WeCode KC
Wesley House Association
YWCA Metro St. Louis

MONTANA

Code Girls United
Family Promise of Gallatin Valley

NEW YORK

All Star Code
El Puente
FCBC Community Development Corporation
Fund for Public Housing, Inc.
Greenwich House, Inc.
Hispanic Federation Inc.
One Hundred Black Men of the Capitol District
The STEM Alliance
United Way of Orleans County
VIA: Visually Impaired Advancement

NORTH CAROLINA

The Center for Digital Equity
Center for Community Transitions
E2D – Eliminate the Digital Divide
Guilford County Cooperative Extension
Kramden Institute
Urban League of Central Carolinas
Winston-Salem Urban League

OHIO

1000 Ties
Akron Urban League
ASC3
Benjamin Rose
Central Community House
KLICWOW
Seeds of Literacy
UpSpring
United Way of Greater Cincinnati
Urban League of Greater Cleveland

PENNSYLVANIA

Shenango Valley Urban League

SOUTH CAROLINA

Senior Citizens Association in Florence County

TEXAS

CARDBoard Project
Compudopt
Girls Inc of San Antonio
The Ladder Alliance

VIRGINIA

LGBT Tech

WASHINGTON

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin
Goodwill Industries of the Columbia

WASHINGTON, D.C.

LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc.

WISCONSIN

Digital Bridge
Greater Milwaukee Urban League
Urban League of Greater Madison
Serving Older Adults

About Charter

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator with services available to more than 57 million homes and businesses in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the Company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise® provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The Company also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

Improving Digital Literacy for All Ages

September 5, 2024

AT&T Connects

In today’s world, technology is everywhere. Whether you’re scheduling a health check-up, managing your money, booking your next adventure, working, studying, or just keeping in touch with family and friends, chances are you’re doing it online. That’s why being tech-savvy is important for everyone. AT&T is committed to fostering digital inclusivity as part of our investment of $5 billion since 2021 to bridge the digital divide. Initially targeting K-12 students, the initiative now extends to older adults.

The digital divide is stark among older communities, making them vulnerable to cyber risks. In 2023, the FBI reported losses exceeding $12.5 billion from internet crimes, with $3.4 billion from people over 60. Enhancing digital literacy for older adults is crucial for their safety and security online.

AT&T’s Connected Learning resources, including the Digital Navigators program and Connected Learning Centers (CLCs), are helping older adults improve their digital literacy so they can get the most out of their internet experiences. In fact, at a CLC in Los Angeles, seniors are using our resources to apply for jobs, and even work toward U.S. citizenship.

We’re committed to doing more. That’s why we are teaming up with four nationally recognized nonprofit organizations that serve older adults. Through these partnerships, we aim to reach even more seniors and give them the digital tools they need to thrive in today’s tech-driven world.

Cyber Seniors empowers teenagers to mentor older adults, and through its partnership with AT&T, it’s aiming to reach 5,000 participants leveraging our digital literacy resources to achieve this ambitious target. Cyber Seniors’ webinars cover basics like website navigation, email usage, and online searching.

National Council on Aging (NCOA) aims to connect with 100,000 older adults — 10,000 through AT&T’s programs, — offering a variety of programming, including self-paced modules and one-on-one sessions. NCOA is also committed to enhancing infrastructure of senior centers by providing resources for the purchase or upgrade of tech equipment.

National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) will target 2,500 Hispanic seniors, integrating AT&T’s digital literacy resources into its Caring for the Caregiver programming, covering cybersecurity, video conferencing, and email basics, tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by the Hispanic senior community.

Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP has unveiled through its flagship program Senior Planet, an ambitious plan to serve 10,000 older adults, facilitating 115,000 engagements. Their approach ensures resources are accessible through their dedicated Contact Center, dynamic virtual and in-person classes, and Senior Planet website.

By leveraging AT&T’s resources, these initiatives aim to bring older adults into the digital age, fostering independence, social connectivity, and resilience.

Whether you’re looking to boost your own skills or help someone else, I invite you to explore AT&T’s online resources. You can also support the nonprofits working with older adults to keep everyone connected, informed, and safe online.

Breezeline Brings Telehealth Training to Older Adults in Pennsylvania

Breezeline partners with Cyber-Seniors for technology seminar

Breezeline Digital Learning Seminar

BERWICK, Pa., Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Breezeline, a leading internet, TV, phone and wireless service provider in the U.S., hosted a digital learning seminar on August 5 to empower older adults in Pennsylvania with the knowledge and skills to access healthcare services remotely via their computers, tablets, and other personal devices.

The telehealth seminar was held at the Berwick Senior Center in Berwick in partnership with Cyber-Seniors, a non-profit organization that provides technology training and digital mentoring to seniors via an intergenerational, volunteer model.

“We are thankful for Breezeline’s commitment to our seniors. Programs like this ensure older adults in Berwick understand how to use technology,” said Jan Banko, manager of the Berwick Senior Center.

According to Cyber-Seniors, telehealth services lead to more convenient and accessible patient care. Telemedicine is particularly impactful for patients with mobility issues and patients in rural areas. Knowledge of and access to telehealth technology can reduce non-urgent emergency room visits and increase older adults’ chances of living independently.

“Breezeline values the opportunity to teach older adults important skills like how to use telehealth services,” said Katherine McCoid, public relations manager for Breezeline. “Staying connected is crucial, and Breezeline is proud to provide technology training services to older adults in Pennsylvania.”

To learn more about Breezeline’s commitment to digital literacy, please visit www.cyberseniors.org/breezeline.

About Breezeline

Breezeline is the eighth-largest cable operator in the United States. The company provides its residential and business customers with Internet, TV, and Phone services in 13 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia, as well as mobile service in most states in which it operates. Breezeline is a subsidiary of Cogeco Communications (TSX: CCA), which also operates in Canada, under the Cogeco Connexion name.

Media Contact
Katherine McCoid
Breezeline
kmccoid@breezeline.com

Elder Fraud: The Cautionary Tale of ‘Thelma’

by Rebecca Taylor, Threat Intelligence Knowledge Manager

Social engineering threats to older individuals have found their way to the silver screen with the release of the film, Thelma. The movie tells the story of a 93-year-old female, played by actress June Squibb, who falls victim to a social engineering attack, unknowingly sending $10,000 to a scammer impersonating her grandson on the phone. Thelma experiences self-doubt and victim-shaming, with her own family questioning her judgement and capacity to care for herself. She decides to flip the narrative and track down the ‘bad guys’ herself.

Although this poignant story prompts a smile and some laughs from the audience, it reflects the harsh reality of elder fraud. According to a report by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), more than 101,000 victims aged 60 and over reported elder fraud in 2023, compared to 18,000 victims under the age of 20. The report notes the five most common types of elder fraud as “tech support scams, personal data breaches, confidence and romance scams, non-payment or non-delivery scams, and investment scams.” The FBI further added that these criminals “gain their targets’ trust and may communicate with them directly online, over the phone, and/or through the mail; or indirectly through the TV and radio.”

Despite Thelma’s daughter boldly claiming in the film that she wouldn’t have been fooled by the scam, social engineering attacks can convince even the most tech-savvy and cyber-aware individuals. The scammers exploit human psychology to gain access to personal information, systems, or data. Attackers represent themselves as someone the victim would be inclined to trust (e.g., a bank official, trusted vendor, insurance representative, lawyer, colleague) or want to help (e.g., a family member, someone in need), and they use emails, phone calls, social media platforms, or direct messages to urge victims to divulge sensitive information or perform actions such as making a payment. While some social engineering attacks target specific organizations or individuals, many attacks involve scammers casting a wide net to see who will respond.

Aging populations may not be as digitally savvy as younger generations, making the subtleties of well-crafted social engineering attacks more difficult to recognize. Scammers often create a sense of urgency (e.g., a medical, legal, or financial emergency) and prey on a victim’s fears to elicit an emotional response.

In addition to potential monetary losses from these attacks, the stigma attached to falling for a scam can be devastating. Victims often lose trust in their capacity to detect future threats and experience feelings of embarrassment and shame. Seniors may feel particularly vulnerable. While Thelma focuses on elder fraud, the reality is that people of all ages and technical sophistication can become victims of social engineering. Anyone can mistakenly click a link or be manipulated by a skilled scammer.

The following tips can help you and your loved ones avoid or recover from social engineering attacks:

Educate yourself and others: It is important to normalize the conversation around social engineering and elder fraud. Awareness programs, workshops, and conversations with real-world examples can be beneficial, especially for seniors who might not be as familiar with these scams. Maintaining a non-judgmental and calm environment encourages potential or actual victims to raise concerns and report suspicious activity.
Trust your instincts: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If a request from a relative seems unusual, you probably have reason to be suspicious. Always approach unexpected requests for personal information or financial transactions with a healthy dose of skepticism, and ask yourself “Does this feel right?” If you have doubts or discomfort, stop the conversation and walk away.
Verify the source: Always confirm the identity of the person or company contacting you and do not just accept what they say. You can end a call or conversation and then directly contact the person or organization yourself. Independently look up phone numbers or official websites rather than using the contact information the individual provides.
Protect your personal information: Be cautious about requests for personal information. Scammers can use small pieces of information posted online to build a profile of victims and gain trust. Never share your Social Security number, passwords, PINs, or other multi-factor authentication codes with anyone. A legitimate provider will never ask for them.
Use strong security measures: To protect against unauthorized access to your accounts, use strong passwords, implement multi-factor authentication, and keep software up to date. For individuals who are intimidated by these tasks, technology and service providers, such as banks, can often help individuals add account protections in person. Organizations such as Cyber Seniors and AgeUK also offer support.
Report crimes as soon as possible: If you have been a victim of a crime, contact the appropriate authorities. In addition to reporting the crime to your local police, cybercrimes can be reported to the following organizations:

If you gave the attacker credentials or financial information, escalate the issue to the appropriate organization, such as your bank or financial provider, and always change your password.

Consider additional support: Charities and organizations such as The Cyber Helpline and Mind can help victims process the mental toll of these crimes and support victims as they process what has happened.

Thelma illustrates the growing elder fraud threat. While it’s best to let law enforcement pursue the criminals directly, knowledge of the evolving social engineering tactics enables us to protect our senior population and ourselves from these cybercrimes. Awareness, education, vigilance, and simple kindness can make a significant difference.

Learn about other types of social engineering and fraud campaigns investigated by Secureworks® Counter Threat Unit™ (CTU™) researchers:

Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Seniors Through Digital Inclusion

In an increasingly digital world, access to technology and the internet is not merely a convenience but a necessity. Yet, for many seniors, navigating this digital landscape can be daunting. Nashville Public Library (NPL), through its Digital Inclusion program, is making significant strides to ensure that seniors are not left behind and are instead equipped with the skills and resources they need to thrive.

At the heart of NPL’s efforts lies Cyber Seniors, a pivotal component of Digital Inclusion. This program is tailored to empower older adults by providing them with practical knowledge and hands-on training in digital technologies. With a commitment to fostering literacy skills across all ages, the Nashville Public Library Foundation (NPLF) prioritizes funding digital inclusion programs, empowering Nashville’s seniors.

Imagine a setting where seniors gather in classrooms within their own communities, guided by a dedicated team of instructors and supported by teenage mentors eager to share their digital expertise. “It’s amazing that the program comes to us, and we don’t have to go anywhere,” says Betty, a current Cyber Seniors participant enrolled in the program at Elizabeth Community Center. Here, seniors learn fundamental skills that are essential for staying connected in today’s digital age.

Brenda, an enthusiastic program participant, said “I didn’t know how to use email before, but now I’m all set up.” “I’m looking forward to being able to pay bills online.” Already applying her new skills, Brenda effortlessly searched for boys’ bikes online to shop for her grandson’s birthday present.

The program’s intergenerational approach is another key facet of its success. Teenage mentors, recruited from local high schools, not only provide technical assistance but also foster meaningful connections with the seniors they support. During the 5-week Cyber Seniors program, teen mentors facilitate classes and schedule appointments to work with seniors individually. Upon completion, a graduation ceremony is held, where seniors receive a certificate and a tablet.

Digital inclusion goes beyond mere access to hardware and software. It encompasses fostering the necessary knowledge and support systems that enable individuals, particularly those facing barriers to access, to fully participate in our internet-driven society. The success of Cyber Seniors is amplified through strategic partnerships with organizations like the National Council on Aging, Metro Development and Housing Agency, and Senior Planet. These collaborations extend the program’s reach and effectiveness, ensuring that it reaches those who stand to benefit most from digital literacy initiatives.

Since its inception in 2017, NPL’s Digital Inclusion program has been pivotal in serving the needs of Nashville’s seniors. Fear and skepticism about technology are common barriers among seniors new to digital platforms. However, surveys indicate that after completing Cyber Seniors, 98% of participants feel more confident and knowledgeable about using their devices. They continue to utilize their newfound skills long after the program ends. Beyond technical skills, the program fosters a supportive community where seniors feel connected, valued, and confident in their ability to navigate the digital landscape.

Cyber Seniors is made possible thanks to the generous support of the West End Home Foundation, Best Buy Foundation, and Google Fiber.