On the latest episode of Health Futures – Taking Stock in You, host Bob Roth welcomed Abbie Richie, founder and CEO of Senior Savvy and tech guru at Smarter Service, for a dynamic and forward-thinking conversation about empowering older adults through technology.
For the full episode, CLICK HERE.
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, we believe aging with dignity means having the tools, access, and confidence to stay connected and independent. That’s why our conversation with Abbie Richie was so impactful, because bridging the digital divide is essential for thriving as we age.
From Zoom Troubleshooting to Tech Empowerment
Abbie Richie didn’t set out to become a national tech educator for seniors, but when the pandemic hit, she saw a critical need. Older adults were being cut off from family, healthcare, and basic services due to a lack of digital access.
What started with a few helpful Zoom tutorials quickly grew into Senior Savvy, a business built on compassion and practicality. Today, Richie is also a nationally recognized tech guru with Smarter Service, a platform that helps senior living communities deliver concierge-style tech support to their residents.
“These are intelligent people who just haven’t been taught,” Richie told Roth. “They didn’t grow up with tech, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn it.”
Closing the Digital Divide, One Lesson at a Time
Through virtual classes, one-on-one support, and partnerships with senior living communities, Richie helps older adults overcome frustration and gain confidence with their devices.
It’s not just about how to use an iPhone or set up a Gmail account. It’s about creating independence, restoring dignity, and keeping people connected to the world and to each other.
“When someone learns how to text their grandchild or check a doctor’s message online, you see their whole face light up,” Richie said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
Tech Support That’s Human-Centered
Richie’s approach is rooted in patience, simplicity, and respect. She avoids jargon, starts with the basics, and tailors her lessons to each individual’s needs.
“I always tell people: there are no stupid questions,” she said. “And you can ask me the same question 100 times.”
She’s also passionate about removing shame and fear from the tech learning process, especially for older adults who may have been dismissed or excluded.
“Too often, the message they get is ‘you’re too old for this.’ That’s just wrong. It’s never too late to learn something new.”
The Future of Aging Is Digital – But Only If It’s InclusiveTech Support That’s Human-Centered
Richie emphasized that as healthcare, banking, and even social services move online, it’s critical that seniors aren’t left behind. Digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential.
That’s why she works with senior communities and providers through Smarter Service and Senior Savvy to offer tech training that’s accessible, meaningful, and empowering.
“It’s not about making seniors tech experts,” she said. “It’s about giving them access. Access to care, to family, to information. That’s what keeps people healthy and connected.”
At Cypress, Connection Is Care
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, we believe that innovation only matters if it’s inclusive. That’s why we champion voices like Abbie Richie’s, because empowering older adults with technology is a key part of aging well.
Whether it’s helping a client set up a telehealth appointment or showing them how to FaceTime with a loved one, we know that tech support is care.
To learn more about Abbie Richie’s work, visit her website.
For community-based tech support solutions, explore her work at Smarter Service.
To learn how Cypress HomeCare Solutions supports Arizona families on the aging journey, contact us at 602-857-8694 or visit CypressHomeCare.com.
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical or professional advice. Please consult with appropriate healthcare, legal, or financial experts regarding your specific situation.
Listen to the full episode of Health Futures – Taking Stock in You at CypressHomeCare.com/media/radio-show.
