Programs include digital skills basics and new gaming initiative, underway now in area community spaces and seniors’ residences

Superior Adult Learning’s free Digital Skills and Silver Gaming programs have been empowering older adults to use technology confidently in their daily lives…and have fun with it too!

Programs provide one-on-one support with trained instructors, enabling older adults of all abilities to learn and grow through the sessions, using whatever technology they would like to master.

Silver Gaming

Local senior Wendy Upton has been taking the Digital Skills program at the Legion in Sault Ste. Marie. She shared, “My instructor (Brenda Peralta) has taught me so much, answering all my questions in a way I can easily understand; she is extremely knowledgeable and patient. There is so much to learn, we have worked on my iPhone, iPad and laptop. These sessions are relaxing and fun. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity.” Peralta said, “Our Digital Skills program has been successfully supporting a growing number of seniors in the Soo since 2023. We focus on independence, practical skills, and social connection, including how to use your smartphone, introduction to social media, online banking and forms, email, and using video chat.”

The Digital Skills program has proved so popular, Superior Adult Learning has expanded its offerings and launched a new program: Silver Gaming. Peralta explained, “This is an innovative program which introduces interactive and easy-to-use video games for seniors, which promote cognitive health, socialization, and fun. We are starting to deliver sessions in seniors’ residences and community spaces and are excited about the possibilities for this new program in our area!”

The specific games to be featured will be based on the results of surveys completed by local seniors, but will likely include traditional board or card games, played digitally; Wii bowling, tennis or similar games; puzzles; strategy games; and racing games.

Peralta, whose history with Superior Adult Learning includes being a participant in newcomer programs in the centre, before becoming a member of the instruction team, is also involved in the Silver Gaming project as a facilitator.

She commented, “This initiative brings interactive gaming experiences to the community, creating opportunities for social connection, learning, and fun. While the project began with planning and preparation, we are now starting to deliver sessions in seniors’ residences as the initiative continues to grow.”

Peralta finished, “Looking back, my experience with Superior Adult Learning feels like a full-circle moment — from participant, to volunteer, to staff member supporting others in their own learning journeys. I am proud to be part of programs like Digital Skills and Silver Gaming and look forward to continuing to support the community as these initiatives move forward into 2026.”

Silver Gaming

​Digital Skills drop-in sessions are currently offered Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Centennial Public Library.

While Digital Skills is offered as weekly drop-in support at community locations, Silver Gaming sessions are delivered by request in seniors’ residences and community spaces.

Residences or organizations interested in hosting Silver Gaming sessions can contact Superior Adult Learning by calling 705-946-3953, or emailing [email protected].