Tech Help: In-Person and Online Classes

*A caregiver standing with her father seated at a breakfast table, smiling at a laptop.*

Not sure where to start learning about technology, or looking to refresh your skills? No matter your level, there’s a class or course to help you or a loved one master the fundamentals of using technology and accessing online resources. Here are 6 places to get you started:

1. Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library network offers in-person tech help, computer classes, and online resources to bridge the digital divide and make tech more accessible to older adults. Classes are also available in Spanish.

Classes are available at several BPL branches. To find a class near you, visit the BPL’s website: Boston Public Library

Living outside of Boston? Many libraries have their own computer classes or know of local resources that can help you. Contact your local library today to learn more.

2. SeniorPlanet

SeniorPlanet is a nonprofit by the AARP that offers online classes to help older adults learn and use technology so they can live better in the digital age. They offer online classes in English, Spanish, and Chinese.

Their programs are designed around 5 impact areas: financial security, social engagement, creative expression, health and wellness, and civic participation. Some examples of classes include:

Intro to digital wallets
Understanding internet plans
Intro to translation tools and learning apps
Instagram basics
Protecting your medical info online
Digital genealogy tools
Using Google Drive

They also offer many social activities such as online exercise classes, meditation sessions, lunch and learns, and book clubs. It’s a great resource to make friends while becoming more familiar with technology!

SeniorPlanet has a help hotline open Monday through Friday from 9 AM—8 PM, and Saturday from 9 AM—2PM. Call 888-713-3495 to connect with a specialist and receive tech help.

3. Rosie’s Place

Looking for local, in-person help in Boston? Rosie’s Place in South End holds drop-in computer labs, where you can learn typing, basic computer skills, and how to conduct an online job search. Instructors speak both Spanish and English.

To learn more and sign up, contact Sandy Mariano at 617-318-0253 or [email protected].

4. SkillBase by Harvard College

Harvard College promotes digital equity by offering free online courses on their learning website, SkillBase. These classes are targeted for those learning how to use a computer for and English-speaking workplace, and cover:

Basics of the computer, internet, and email
Intro to digital tools such as a word processor, spreadsheet, and Google Drive
Basic English for business
Help with the US citizenship process

All courses are free on demand with email sign-up.

5. Tzu Chi Boston

Tzu Chi, a Buddhist humanitarian organization, offers in-person smartphone classes in the heart of Chinatown to Chinese-speaking older adults, with dedicated time for questions and answers. No reservation is needed.

When: Second and third Tuesdays and Thursdays of each month, 10 AM – 12PM
Where: #505, 65 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02111
Cost: Free

Visit the Tzu Chi Boston website to learn more about their mission.

6. Cyber-Seniors

Founded in 2015, Cyber-Seniors is a non-profit organization that connects older adults with young volunteers. These volunteers will work with you one-on-one as your personal digital mentor, walking you through whatever questions you may have.

Click here to sign up for a free one-on-one tech call.

On top of that, Cyber-Seniors also offers wellness classes, daily webinars, movie nights, and other resources.