DC Senior Technology Program
The D.C. Senior Technology Program (formerly the DC Senior iPad Program) was administered by WildTech through a grant from the District of Columbia Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) to provide free iPads, training, programming, and support to seniors who lack computers. Founded to combat social isolation among homebound seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic, the iPad Program has become a lasting lifeline for the 1,500 and growing seniors we serve.
WildTech enrolled, provided iPads, and trained more than 400 D.C. seniors in 2021. In 2022, WildTech brought an additional 1,000 D.C. seniors into the program.
After learning how to use their iPads, seniors participate in advanced tech classes, senior-led presentations, and social hours. Guest speakers are also brought in to educate senior participants about services available in D.C.
We conduct live programming via Zoom weekly, giving ample opportunities to reduce social isolation. Many participants tell us the daily engagement and access to resources has been life-changing!
Benefits of the Program
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We provide virtual social interaction for isolated seniors 5 times a week.
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We provide technology that helps seniors connect with friends, family, government services, medical assistance, and community groups.
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Our seniors report that they use their devices to read books, listen to music, attend religious services, order groceries, watch movies, take pictures, and read news.
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The Senior Technolgy Program follows WildTech's 7 Pillars of Digital Inclusion.
We're Making a Difference!
Our Participants Say
"This is my lifeline...a lot of us would be sitting here lonely, crying all day, trying to figure out what to do with our lives because at one time we were healthy individuals and then we became ill. And when we got on the iPad, a new sunshine opened up."
Diane Leach, Senior Program Participant
We Serve Large Numbers
Our adaptable program simultaneously serves large numbers of seniors in both group and one-on-one sessions while also providing customized accessibility solutions for those needing specialized support.
8,049
Help Desk calls addressed : April 2022 - February 2025
51,033
Class attendances: April 2022 -
February 2025
1,474
Hour-long, 1:1 training sessions held with seniors: April 2022 - February 2025
Supported by The Washington Home Foundation, The Greater Washington Community Foundation, and The D.C. Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL)