Somerville and Cambridge residents can access free technology assistance through a new program offered by nonprofit Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES). The Technology Access Program (TAP) launched on July 1 with the goal of helping older adults use technology to find information, services and social connections easily and quickly. 

Building on SCES’ popular Tech Support Coach Volunteer Program, TAP will partner with local organizations to host free drop-in sessions, open labs and skills workshops. Home visits conducted by trained Technology Access Coordinators will be available by appointment.

TAP sessions will help participants better understand how to access and use technology available to them. Sessions will be tailored based on the needs of the audience but will broadly cover topics like internet connectivity and setup, app installation, connecting to telehealth appointments, or finding medical information and resources online.

TAP Manager Colin Barr says that improving access to technology will ultimately lead to better health and social outcomes for participants. Having access to technology, including a reliable internet connection, helps people connect with others, engage with their communities and receive important information and resources.

“We are fighting for digital equity,” said Barr. “There are major discrepancies in how people access technology, especially when we consider age and income. TAP will help bridge this gap and mitigate the negative effects of isolation and loneliness among people who are less connected to others.”

TAP will hold drop-in help sessions every Tuesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and skills workshops every Monday from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Somerville Council on Aging located at 167 Holland Street in Somerville.

TAP is available for Cambridge and Somerville residents ages 60 and older. The program is open to participants at all skill levels, including those who are completely new to different forms of technology. Information about SCES’ other services, like home delivered meals, health benefits counseling and caregiving support will be available.

For more information, call SCES at 617-628-2601 or email info@eldercare.org. If your organization is interested in hosting a workshop or partnering with TAP, please contact TAP Manager Colin Barr at colin.barr@eldercare.org or 617-628-2601 x1007.

SCES’ Technology Access Program is made possible through funding from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech.

Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services is a nonprofit agency that supports the independence and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities in Somerville and Cambridge. For free advice and guidance on questions of aging, caregiving or disability, contact our Community Support Center at 617-628-2601, email info@eldercare.org, or visit our website eldercare.org.