Local & Ontario Resources
Real people and real programs in our community that can help you with technology. These have been selected because they are patient, senior-friendly, and either free or very low cost.
Every resource on this page is free, trustworthy, and staffed by people who genuinely want to help you. When in doubt, call. There are no silly questions.
🏡 Living Alone Safely — Digital Guide for Solo Seniors
A complete guide covering smart home devices, health technology, financial safety, emergency preparedness, and staying connected — written specifically for seniors who live independently in Ontario.
Read the Guide →Additional Canadian Programmes
ABC Life Literacy Canada — Digital Literacy
Free digital literacy programmes and resources designed for Canadian adults. Their materials are written in plain language and are excellent for building confidence step by step.
Website: abclifeliteracy.ca
Free online resources — available 24 hours a day
Free ResourcesCanada Revenue Agency (Real Contact)
If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from the CRA, verify by calling the CRA directly at the number below. Never use a phone number given to you by a suspicious caller.
Phone: 1-800-959-8281 (Individual tax enquiries)
Website: canada.ca/en/revenue-agency
Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm ET · Toll-free
Verify CRA Calls HereStand Against Scams — CAFC Public Awareness Campaign
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre's public education campaign. Practical guides on how to recognise fraud, protect yourself, and report suspicious activity. Available in English and French.
Website: standagainstscams.ca
Free — available 24 hours a day
Free ResourcesApple Support
For genuine Apple support — not scam calls. If someone calls claiming to be Apple, hang up and call this number yourself to verify.
Phone: 1-800-275-2273 (Toll-free)
Website: support.apple.com
Available 7 days a week · Chat and phone support
Google / Android Support
For help with Android phones or tablets. If someone claims to be Google and calls you unsolicited, it is a scam — call this number yourself to verify.
Phone: 1-855-836-3987 (Toll-free)
Website: support.google.com
Available 7 days a week · Chat and phone support
Helpful Podcasts
Seniors Tech Talk
Weekly conversations about technology topics for older adults. No jargon, no condescension — real, helpful tech advice.
All platforms are free. Spotify and YouTube do not require an account to listen.
How to find this podcast on your device
📱 Apple / iPad
- Open the purple Podcasts app (radio signal shape icon)
- Tap Search at the bottom of the screen
- Type "Seniors Tech Talk" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
🤖 Android
- Open Spotify or YouTube
- Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass)
- Type "Seniors Tech Talk" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
Digital Savvy Seniors
Tips and tricks for getting the most from your devices, from online safety to fun apps. Each episode covers one clear topic so you can choose what is relevant to you.
All platforms are free. Spotify and YouTube do not require an account to listen.
How to find this podcast on your device
📱 Apple / iPad
- Open the purple Podcasts app
- Tap Search at the bottom
- Type "Digital Savvy Seniors" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
🤖 Android
- Open Spotify or YouTube
- Tap Search (magnifying glass)
- Type "Digital Savvy Seniors" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
Tech Tips for Seniors
Short, focused episodes (under 15 minutes) that tackle one topic at a time. Great for learning something new while having your morning coffee.
All platforms are free. Spotify and YouTube do not require an account to listen.
How to find this podcast on your device
📱 Apple / iPad
- Open the purple Podcasts app
- Tap Search at the bottom
- Type "Tech Tips for Seniors" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
🤖 Android
- Open Spotify or YouTube
- Tap Search (magnifying glass)
- Type "Tech Tips for Seniors" and tap Search
- Tap the show, then tap any episode to play
On your iPad, look for the Podcasts app — it has a purple icon with a radio signal shape. Open it, tap Search, and type the name of the podcast. Tap the podcast to see episodes, then tap any episode to play it. You can pause and resume at any time.
Helpful YouTube Channels
These channels specialize in patient, clear technology instruction for older adults. You can find them by searching their names in the YouTube app (or visiting youtube.com in Safari).
Payette Forward
Calm, thorough tutorials for iPhone and iPad. Covers everything from basic setup to troubleshooting specific problems. Videos are clearly organised by topic.
Excellent for iPad HelpThe Senior List
Technology reviews and tutorials specifically created for older adults. They test products and apps from a senior's perspective and give honest recommendations.
Senior-Focused ReviewsTech Talks with Ken
Easy-to-follow technology tips and tricks. Ken speaks slowly and clearly, and repeats important steps.
Clear and PatientFinding Local Technology Help
If you don't see your city listed above, try these approaches:
- Your local library: Call and ask if they offer technology workshops or one-on-one help sessions — most do, and it's free
- Senior centres: Many community centres host free technology classes — check your municipality's recreation guide or website
- 211 Ontario: Call 2-1-1 or visit 211ontario.ca to find local senior services including tech support
- Ask your bank: Many banks offer in-branch tutorials on using their mobile app and online banking — just walk in and ask
💡 Tip: When calling, specifically ask: "Do you offer technology help or classes for seniors?" This helps them direct you to the right person.
You are never alone on this journey. These people and programs exist because they care about helping people learn. Do not hesitate to reach out.
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