How one Council on Aging transformed an aging computer lab into a welcoming space for learning, confidence, and connection.
Sometimes innovation doesn’t mean building something new. It means looking at what already exists and imagining what it could become.
That’s exactly what happened at the Ashland Senior Center, where an outdated computer lab has been transformed into a dynamic, accessible Digital Literacy Lab designed around the needs and interests of older adults.
Led by Candice Wilson, Director of the Ashland Council on Aging, the project earned MCOA’s 2026 Innovation of the Year Award, recognizing its creativity, measurable impact, and potential to inspire other communities.
Secretary Robin Lipson, MCOA Board Vice Chair Mignonne Murray and MCOA Board Chair Susan Pacheco
Reimagining a Familiar Space
Ashland’s original computer lab dated back to 2015. As technology evolved, so did the needs of the older adults who used the space.
Rather than simply replacing computers, Candice and her team saw an opportunity to rethink the entire learning experience.
The redesigned lab includes height-adjustable tables, comfortable seating, touchscreen monitors, large-key keyboards, adaptive equipment, and updated instructional technology.
Each improvement was guided by a simple principle: technology education should be accessible, comfortable, and welcoming to everyone.
More Than Computers
What makes Ashland’s project especially creative is its focus on exploration and independent learning.
Each computer includes a customized links page, giving participants one-click access to educational and entertaining experiences—from language lessons and podcasts to virtual visits to the Smithsonian National Zoo and even a little Beatles nostalgia.
In a wonderful example of intergenerational collaboration, a local National Honor Society high school student helped develop the customized pages.
The result is a space where technology feels less intimidating and curiosity is encouraged.
Measuring the Impact
The improvements are already making a difference.
Participation in digital literacy classes has increased by 20 percent, overall lab use has grown, and a new writing class has created additional opportunities for creativity and self-expression.
But the greatest impact may be harder to measure: the confidence that comes from mastering a new skill, the independence gained through technology, and the connections made along the way.
A Model for Other Communities
Ashland’s success demonstrates that innovation doesn’t always require creating a new program from scratch.
By listening to participants, working collaboratively, and reimagining existing resources, Councils on Aging can make meaningful improvements that respond to local needs.
The Digital Literacy Lab offers a practical, adaptable model for senior centers interested in expanding digital inclusion and lifelong learning opportunities.
Congratulations to Candice Wilson and the Ashland Council on Aging on receiving MCOA’s 2026 Innovation of the Year Award!
Your creativity reminds us that innovation has no age limit—and that the best ideas often begin by asking, What could we do differently?
The MCOA Innovation of the Year Award recognizes initiatives that demonstrate creativity, meaningful community impact, and ideas that other Councils on Aging can adapt and build upon.
