Anne Goldberg, a vibrant 73-year-old, has dedicated herself to helping fellow seniors embrace the world of technology. With her extensive background in tech, dating back to the 1980s when she first explored early computer models, Anne is on a mission to make technology accessible and enjoyable for older adults.
After a fulfilling career as a recruiter, Anne found herself at a crossroads in 2013. A friend's request for a birthday slideshow reignited her passion for technology. The warm reception from guests at the celebration sparked a wave of inquiries from older individuals eager to learn about their devices. This unexpected interest inspired Anne to consider a new venture.
With determination and her background in outreach, she connected with an independent living facility in Boca Raton, Florida. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and she soon found herself leading her first class, where seniors brought their unused smartphones and tablets. Many attendees were initially hesitant, encouraged by family members who had tried—and often struggled—to teach them. Anne's gentle humor broke the ice as she acknowledged their reluctance: "I know you hate the idea of being here."
Fast forward twelve years, and Anne is now a beloved instructor at various retirement homes throughout Florida. She recently published a book titled "Take This Phone and Shove It!: A Frustrated Senior's Guide to Smartphones," which showcases her commitment to empowering seniors.
"It's incredibly rewarding," she shares, reflecting on the joy she sees in her clients' eyes when they achieve a breakthrough in understanding technology. Most of the seniors appreciate learning from someone close to their age, finding comfort in the shared experiences and challenges.
Anne offers three key pieces of advice to her learners:
You're Not Alone in Your Struggles: Many seniors worry about appearing incompetent in the face of technology. Anne reassures them that these feelings are common. She recounts a heartwarming moment when she guided an octogenarian through saving a photo on her iPhone. The woman's astonishment at how simple it was was a testament to the power of encouragement. Anne encourages her students to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations: "Instead of saying, 'I can't do it,' say, 'I can't do it yet.'"
Embrace the Present: While it’s easy to reminisce about the past, Anne encourages her students to focus on the advantages that modern technology offers. She highlights how devices allow families to connect across distances, reminding them, "You can talk to them and see them at the same time nowadays." Once they learn to use tools like FaceTime, they often express regret for not having done so sooner.
Don’t Fear Your Device: Many seniors worry about potentially damaging their phones. Anne lightens the mood by pointing out the few ways one could truly break a device, reminding her students that accidental drops or light taps are unlikely to cause harm. She encourages a gentle touch, likening it to how they would approach a hot surface.
Through her inspiring journey, Anne Goldberg has not only taught countless seniors how to navigate the digital world but has also fostered a sense of community and belonging among them. Her story is a beautiful reminder that learning knows no age limits, and with the right guidance, anyone can thrive in the age of technology.
