Tech and Language Events for Older Adults

Looking for simple technology and language activities to dive into remotely? There are a few ways older New Yorkers can practice language skills, learn about new technology, and more, all from the comfort of home.

The New York Public Library (NYPL) regularly offers free events for all ages, many of which are geared towards teaching computer and technology skills or practicing language. Get acquainted with Apple's powerful word processor application Mac Pages through a virtual class on Saturday, March 13 from 10:30am to 12:00pm. Also, on Saturday, March 13, learn how to buy and sell on eBay through a free virtual class from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. Click here to browse more events about computers and technology. If you’re interested in language classes, there are several to choose from with NYPL. Join a Spanish conversation group on Wednesday, March 17 at 4:00pm or a French conversation group meeting on Wednesday, March 24 at 1:00pm and practice speaking with others. You can also learn basic Mandarin conversation with an instructor on Thursday, March 11 at 7:00pm. Click here for more language classes and groups.

Project FIND, a network of senior centers offering virtual classes, has a robust calendar of events updated regularly. Coming up this week, join a Spanish for beginners’ class on Wednesday, March 10 at 12:00pm and later in the week, catch a tech device discussion class on Friday, March 12 at 1:00pm. Click on the “join” links for each in the calendar, and visit Project FIND’s website regularly for updated schedules. You can also find free fitness classes, health and wellness discussions, and more.

Senior Planet, a terrific resource for older adults made by older adults, has a robust calendar full of online activities every month. The virtual events range from gentle stretch classes to book clubs, and many cover topics about introducing people to different aspects of technology. Check out a class on getting started with the money exchange app Venmo on Wednesday, March 10 at 1:15pm or a class on optimizing your smartphone for great photo taking on Thursday, March 11 at 4:00pm. Check in regularly with Senior Planet’s event calendar for more tech-focused classes. Also, join in on a regular Spanish club for beginners to practice your conversational skills—the classes meet on Wednesdays in March at 4:15pm.

This spring, you can also join some inexpensive virtual classes for just $10 each through the Marlene Meyerson JCC focusing on tech training as part of its Virtual: SeniorTechNYC programming. On Wednesday, March 24 at 3:00pm, join a class that goes over the basics of streaming platforms like Amazon or Hulu. There are a number of classes in April, too, including a lesson on intermediate iPad tips and tricks on Thursday, April 8 at 11:00am or a class on how to best manage your passwords online on Thursday, April 22 at 10:00am. Click here to browse Virtual: SeniorTechNYC classes.

These are just a few free and low-cost options for diving into tech and language activities. Of course, there are a ton of activities for older adults across the Upper West Side and New York City, including adult classes at Kaufman Music Center, like Dalcroze for seniors as well as crafting activities at the New York Public Library, exercise classes with Project Find, and more. Check out our Events Calendar for more upcoming virtual events.

Photo credit: NYPL