April 29, 2025

by Akila Gibbs

Every era presents unique challenges. For older adults, meeting the moment now means embracing a life shaped by digital technological advances—from monitoring and contacting online health services to maintaining connections with loved ones to receiving community alerts. While access may be just a click or a voice command away, older adults might still face a learning curve in mastering the full use of their mobile and online devices. This is where the Pasadena Senior Center rises to the occasion by offering a comprehensive range of educational programs, computer classes, free Wi-Fi, iPads, and laptops, along with personalized consultations, empowering our community to embrace the digital age.

In celebration of Older Americans Month, we proudly assist hundreds of lifelong learners each year who seek to navigate technology. All anyone needs to do is ask.

In the early days, our classes focused on setting up email accounts, teaching Skype, and exploring megapixels in digital photography. During COVID, when many of us felt isolated, we found ways to engage with the community virtually. Our Zoom classes covered various medical topics and cultural subjects, and we were told they served as a lifeline for those confined to sheltering in place. I also hosted “Coffee with Akila” chats, which provided us another opportunity to connect. Many relationships formed during that time have transitioned into lasting in-person friendships—a wonderful outcome.

More recent offerings reflect the rapidly changing advances in today’s tech world, with classes ranging from getting to know your iPad and iPhone to understanding AI. This summer marks the launch of a new workshop entitled “Smart Homes, Smarter Living,” designed to encourage aging in place by using smart devices to create a safe environment for daily living.

We continue to offer one-on-one sessions covering topics such as setting up telemedicine appointments, using smartwatches to monitor everything from sleep patterns to blood pressure, protecting yourself from scammers, and commandeering apps.

In addition to our on-site staff, high school student volunteers assist at certain times of the year to conduct sessions on how to use cell phones and tablets. It’s a win-win for both older and younger adults, as most of the latter are already helping their parents and grandparents, are very patient, and take pride in sharing their know-how.

There is much to celebrate during Older Americans Month, especially considering the accomplishments achieved since we expanded our tech lab and computer classes. These include witnessing our members grow increasingly comfortable with upgrading to the latest devices, connecting more with friends and family via social media, taking higher-quality digital photographs, and generally gaining more independence by traveling on their own using maps and ride-sharing apps.

The truth is, keeping our heads in the clouds and pretending that technology doesn’t exist is no longer an option. The Pasadena Senior Center is dedicated to helping you embrace the mindset that technology is your friend.

All our programs are listed on our website at pasadenaseniorcenter.org. Or call us at 626-795-4331 to schedule a consultation regarding our services.

Akila Gibbs is the executive director of the Pasadena Senior Center.