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Tracfone partners with seniors group to boost digital confidence

Workshop sessions will cover a wide range of tech topics

Updated:

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.
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Key Insights

  • Survey finds 64% of Americans 50+ feel technology isn’t designed with their age in mind.
  • Tracfone and OATS from AARP launch free Digital Wellness Workshops to help seniors build essential tech skills.
  • Workshops have kicked off in three U.S. cities.

As older Americans increasingly rely on technology for everyday tasks, many still feel left behind. A recent AARP survey found that 64% of adults aged 50 and older believe modern technology is not designed with their needs in mind, highlighting a widening digital skills gap among seniors.

To help address that divide, Tracfone Wireless, a no-contract prepaid provider on the Verizon 5G network, is partnering with Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), a charitable affiliate of AARP, to expand access to technology education for seniors. 

Working through Senior Planet, the company is launching a series of free Digital Wellness Workshops aimed at helping older adults build the confidence and skills needed to stay connected and safe online.

The initiative kicked off this month with in-person workshops at Senior Planet centers in Plattsburgh, N.Y.; Miami, Fla.; and Denver, Colo., which serve as hubs for older adults seeking to strengthen their tech abilities. A national virtual workshop will also be available on November 6 at seniorplanet.org, increasing accessibility for those outside the host cities.

The sessions will cover a wide range of topics shaped by the needs of older learners, including:

  • How to use smartphones and understand artificial intelligence
  • Managing privacy settings
  • Protecting personal data and passwords
  • Utilizing digital tools to stay connected with loved ones

A mission to support older Americans

Executives from both organizations emphasized the importance of ensuring seniors feel empowered, not frustrated, when interacting with modern technology.

“We’re proud to work with OATS to support older adults as they master the technology skills they need to feel more connected,” said Nancy Clark, president of Verizon Value. “We know our consumers turn to us for reliable and simple service, which is why teaming up with OATS on its Digital Wellness Workshops felt natural.”

Tracfone, part of Verizon’s Value portfolio of prepaid brands, describes the partnership as an extension of its Value Cares social impact program, which focuses on providing reliable connectivity and resources to underserved communities. The company’s services are available at more than 100,000 retail locations nationwide, in addition to its digital storefront.

How to register

Older adults interested in participating can find more information or register for upcoming workshops at:

www.seniorplanet.org/digital-wellness