With the number of Americans aged 65 and older projected to increase by 24 million by 2050, MFPL is proud to announce the availability of Gale Presents: GetSetUp, a proven digital resource designed to support the growing needs of older adults across our community. According to the 2024 Active Aging Report, older adults are increasingly turning to digital tools for health, wellness, and lifelong learning, as evidenced by their participation in over 5.27 million GetSetUp online activities last year. To meet their needs, Mattapoisett Library is offering free access to this innovative platform built specifically for adults aged 55 and over.
“We’re excited to bring this empowering resource to our patrons,” said Amanda Lawrence, Adult Services Librarian. “GetSetUp helps older adults stay mentally sharp, socially connected, and physically active – all from the comfort of home.”
Key Features of Gale Presents: GetSetUp:
-A rotating catalog of 5,000+ live and on-demand classes, short videos, and articles on topics like digital literacy, fitness, nutrition, mental wellness, travel, and retirement planning.
-Peer-led instruction by older adult educators who understand the unique learning styles of their audience.
-Built-in community features that foster social interaction and reduce isolation.
-Flexible, self-paced learning accessible on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
-Support from Helen, an AI assistant that helps users find classes, answer questions, and stay engaged.
Why It Matters Now:
-28% (16.2 million) of older adults live alone, making social connections more critical than ever.
-45.9% of GetSetUp surveyed users engage in daily physical activity, and many active agers are seeking new ways to stay healthy.
-Nearly 900,000 digital literacy classes were taken through GetSetUp in 2023 on topics including online banking, telemedicine, and smart device usage, showing a strong desire to stay informed and tech fluent in today’s world.
Mattapoisett Library is committed to supporting the well-being of older adults in Mattapoisett by offering inclusive, accessible, and engaging resources. Whether aging patrons are looking to learn a new skill, connect with others, or simply stay active, GetSetUp has something for everyone. With practical, tech-focused classes like “Online Safety: Protect Your Personal Information” and “Using Your Android Smartphone,” seniors can confidently navigate today’s rapidly changing digital environment. At the same time, courses such as “Ease the Ache with Gentle Stretches for Back Pain” and “Brain Boost: Keeping Young with Music” can help older adults stay mentally sharp, physically active, and creatively inspired – all while connecting with peers who share their interests and experiences.
How to Access: Library cardholders can access GetSetUp for free by visiting mattapoisettlibrary.org/, clicking “Online Resources,” and then “Online Learning.” Scroll down to “GetSetUp by Gale.” If you need assistance, please contact the library.
Please remember that a Mattapoisett library card is required to access this database outside of the library. If your card is missing, we can replace it. To avoid losing it again, download the SAILS mobile app. It’s an excellent alternative to carrying your physical library card. Please see a librarian if you need help or have questions.
For more information, please visit us at 7 Barstow Street, online at www.mattapoisettlibrary.org, or call the library at 508-758-4171.
Graet idea. I am giving it a try at 84. Always a hassle for me to surch for this kind of information.