The computer world can be pretty confusing. You just get one thing figured out, and something else crops up, or a software upgrade seemingly changes everything. Thanks to a grant from Comcast, and secured by Healthy Aging MV, if you need help with your computer, smartphone, tablet, printer, or more, the Call the Tech Pro program (Tech Pro) may be the answer. Tech Pro connects adults 55-plus with friendly, patient tech support at their local Council on Aging. Staffing includes five contracted IT support professionals. Drop-in tech help is once again available at the Island’s Councils on Aging, along with some limited home visits. Tech Pro can help with:
- Using a smartphone, tablet, or computer
- Email and video calls (Zoom, FaceTime, hospital portals, etc.)
- Internet and Wi-Fi questions
- Online safety and avoiding scams
- Printing, scanning, and basic troubleshooting
- Setting up new devices
Drop-in IT support sessions: Weekly three-hour sessions at three local Councils on Aging, staffed by contracted IT specialists who are trusted community members. Older adults receive immediate assistance with smartphones, tablets, computers, and basic digital literacy needs without appointments.
In-home IT support: Specialized visits for complex issues requiring home-based solutions (smart TV setup, network troubleshooting, printer installation) and homebound individuals who cannot access drop-in services. All specialists complete CORI background screenings for safety assurance.
Transportation integration: Older adults can access free rides to drop-in sessions through our GoGoGrandparent and MV Connect programs, eliminating transportation barriers.
Coalition partners: Councils on Aging, libraries, health systems, visiting nurses, NAACP.
Tuesdays, 11 am to 1 pm, at the Tisbury Council on Aging; Thursdays, 11 am to 1 pm, at the Up-Island Council on Aging; Fridays, 11 am to 1 pm, at the Oak Bluffs Council on Aging. Visit techpromv.org, or visit your local Council on Aging: Edgartown COA, 508-627-4386; Oak Bluffs COA, 508-693-4509; Tisbury COA, 508-696-4205; Up-Island COA, 508-693-2896. Email techpromvy@gmail.com.
