Sandra Goldstein joined the Senior Planet Colorado team with over 27 years of IT experience. Now, this Puerto Rico-born CPR instructor is helping older adults rid themselves of fear so they can explore the digital world. 

What led you to becoming a Senior Planet trainer?

I was looking for something a little more interesting. I needed more. And I take care of my 83-year-old mom. So, I wanted to do something with seniors, seeing everything she’s going through. Senior Planet is such an amazing place I found. I wish I found it earlier in my career. It’s made a big difference in how I think about my own future.  

What are some of your favorite parts of the job?

My favorite part is when the participants go away with all this new knowledge we’ve given them. We stuff their brains until they can’t fit anything else in there and then a week later, they’ll come back and they’re all excited because they did this thing, and they did it on their own.

For example, one student went to a lecture on digital couponing and she was so excited because she came back and said, “I saved almost $100 on my grocery shopping.” That’s the stuff I look forward to.  

Do you have any favorite pieces of advice from your time as a trainer? 

I always tell them, don’t be afraid to push the buttons or do the things. It’s not going to break. It’s not going to hurt you. And if it does break, call the hotline (888-713-3495), they’ll fix it for you! 

What are some of your hobbies/passions outside of work?

I read a lot. Tons. And I go camping a lot. We have an RV, so we’re out in the wilderness whenever we can be. 

What does “aging with attitude” mean to you?

To my mom, it’s about being current, relevant, active. For me, it’s getting people there to be able to see the rest of the world, to be a part of this whole community and system we have on the internet without being afraid.  

Pam Hugi is Senior Planet’s Community and Advocacy Manager. Based in Brooklyn, she is a contributing writer for this site.