Senior Digital Literacy: How One Veteran Is Empowering Older Adults Through Technology
In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, one challenge continues to impact millions of Americans: the lack of senior digital literacy. As younger generations adopt the latest technologies with ease, many older adults are left behind—struggling to navigate smartphones, social media, and even basic cybersecurity practices. But one Marine Corps veteran is changing that narrative.
Cole SamarooMeet Cole Samaroo, founder and CEO of Senior Tech Connect, a mission-driven organization working to close the digital divide for older adults and veterans. After serving in the military and experiencing a deeply personal loss, Cole committed himself to a cause that would empower seniors to use technology with confidence and safety. His work is a shining example of how veteran-led entrepreneurship can solve real-world problems.
In this spotlight from the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Cole shares his inspiring journey—from active duty service to launching a national program that has already trained over 11,000 seniors. At the heart of his mission? A powerful focus on senior digital literacy.
The Origin: From the Marines to Mission-Driven Innovation
Cole Samaroo’s path to creating Senior Tech Connect began with his military service. From 2019 to 2023, Cole served in the United States Marine Corps, primarily stationed at Camp Pendleton, with a deployment to Southeast Asia aboard the USS Makin Island. Even while serving, Cole stayed future-focused. He took online courses at night, leveraging the GI Bill to prepare for civilian life and an MBA program.
His transition out of the military was thoughtful and strategic, but it also revealed something deeper: a passion for helping others navigate major life shifts—especially older adults and fellow veterans.
This passion was ignited by a personal tragedy. When Cole’s grandfather passed away from Parkinson’s disease in 2022, Cole saw his grandmother take on an overwhelming role as caregiver. After the funeral, she expressed fear and frustration over new car technologies and medical devices she couldn’t understand. The digital world was advancing, but she was being left behind.
Cole knew that story wasn’t unique. Millions of seniors are facing the same challenge—one that can lead to isolation, vulnerability to scams, and a decreased quality of life. That moment became the foundation for his life’s next mission: improving senior digital literacy across the country.
From Personal Loss to Purpose-Driven Action
Driven to make a change, Cole started researching initiatives already tackling the senior tech gap. He found an article about a young man and his mother helping seniors with tech literacy in Florida. Cole reached out, and that conversation led to a powerful partnership. The mother, Angie, would go on to become his co-founder.
Together, they launched Senior Tech Connect, a social impact startup with a clear mission: to teach older adults how to confidently and safely use modern technology. From smartphones and tablets to online safety and virtual healthcare platforms, their programs are designed to promote digital literacy for seniors at every stage.
Their growth has been extraordinary. What started as a grassroots effort in Florida has expanded nationwide, with programs that now serve over 11,000 seniors—both in-person and virtually.
What Senior Tech Connect Offers
At the core of their success is a deep commitment to accessible and engaging learning. Senior Tech Connect offers a range of services built around senior digital literacy, including:
In-person classes in Florida and Southern California
Virtual webinars on cybersecurity, smartphone use, and more
AI education sessions to demystify artificial intelligence for seniors
An AI-powered tech coach, accessible via text, WhatsApp, or SMS
YouTube-based soap operas and tutorials for engaging digital education
Among the most requested topics is cybersecurity for seniors. With scammers frequently targeting older adults, many of whom are unfamiliar with online threats, this is a critical focus area. Cole and his team help seniors learn how to identify phishing scams, secure their devices, and avoid common traps that lead to identity theft and financial loss.
Equally exciting is their AI tech coach—a virtual assistant seniors can text for help with everyday tech questions. Whether it’s adjusting the brightness on a jitterbug phone or navigating a healthcare portal, the AI coach is there to assist.
Cole believes that teaching seniors how to use technology isn't just about convenience—it's about restoring independence, safety, and connection in their daily lives.
Strategic Partnerships for Broader Impact
Senior Tech Connect’s impact has been multiplied through key partnerships. For example, they’re collaborating with Humana to develop a national education program for Medicare Advantage patients. The goal is to help older adults access telehealth services and digital medical tools with ease.
They’re also working with AARP on community outreach efforts like the “Scam Jam Tour,” raising awareness about fraud prevention and empowering seniors with the knowledge to protect themselves online.
These partnerships not only validate the importance of senior digital literacy, but also show how scalable and adaptable the Senior Tech Connect model is when supported by the right network.
Veteran Entrepreneurial Support
Cole credits much of his organization’s early success to the programs available for veterans. He highlighted several resources that helped him build and grow Senior Tech Connect:
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) from the SBA, which offer mentorship and support for veteran-owned businesses.
SkillBridge, a Department of Defense initiative that allows transitioning service members to work for civilian employers while still on active duty pay.
Hiring Our Heroes Fellowship, which provides a no-cost way to onboard veteran talent temporarily.
American Corporate Partners (ACP), which matched Cole with a mentor—an experienced CEO in digital healthcare.
Cole emphasizes that these veteran-focused programs were pivotal in helping him make the leap from idea to impact. They also reinforced his belief in community, mentorship, and service—values he now brings to every senior his team teaches.
The Emotional Ups and Downs of Impact Work
Like any entrepreneur, Cole has experienced both the joys and the challenges of building a startup. The best part, he says, is hearing directly from seniors who benefit from the programs—people who now feel safer, more connected, and less isolated because of their new tech skills.
The hardest part? Patience. Growth isn’t linear. It comes in waves. One month might bring exciting new partnerships, while the next demands grit and resilience to weather flatlining engagement or technical challenges. For Cole, the discipline and determination he learned in the military has made all the difference.
The Importance of Senior Digital Literacy Today
Cole’s mission is bigger than a business—it’s about changing how society views aging and technology. As our population ages, ensuring senior digital literacy is no longer optional. It’s essential.
Whether it’s accessing healthcare, connecting with family, or protecting themselves from scams, seniors deserve the tools and training to participate fully in the digital age. Thanks to organizations like Senior Tech Connect, that future is within reach.
Cole’s story is a reminder that great ideas often come from personal experience, but real impact comes from turning passion into purpose—and purpose into action.
Learn More and Get Involved
Interested in boosting your own senior digital literacy or helping a loved one get started? Visit SRTechConnect.com for:
Upcoming classes and webinars
The AI Tech Coach access portal
Links to educational videos and resources
You can also find Senior Tech Connect on social media:
LinkedIn
TikTok
Instagram
YouTube
Whether you're a senior, a caregiver, a healthcare provider, or a veteran advocate—there’s a place for you in this movement.
Final Word
Veteran-led, community-focused, and tech-forward—Senior Tech Connect represents the best of what modern social entrepreneurship can achieve. As the digital divide continues to grow, so too does the importance of senior digital literacy.
Thanks to leaders like Cole Samaroo, the future is looking more connected, empowered, and inclusive for older adults everywhere.
