A lantern between you and the answers you need
LanternAid is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping older adults navigate the questions that shape their daily lives. We connect seniors with trusted, plain-language guidance — at absolutely no cost.
We know that receiving a confusing letter from Medicare, a medical report you cannot read, or a legal notice you do not understand can feel overwhelming — especially when there is no one nearby to ask.
That is why we exist. LanternAid makes the power of modern technology human, accessible, and safe — so that no older adult has to feel confused or left behind.
We are not doctors, lawyers, or financial advisors. We say so, every time. What we do is help you understand your situation so you can ask better questions and walk into every appointment or decision with confidence.
"LanternAid exists to ensure that no older adult is left without answers simply because they lack access to technology or the knowledge to use it."
"Every question deserves a clear, plain-language response. Every senior deserves to feel informed and empowered — not confused or left behind."
Dignity
Every interaction treats seniors as capable, curious adults who deserve real answers.
Accessibility
Phone, print, web, or caregiver — however you can reach us, we are there.
Honesty
We are clear about our limits. We are not professionals — we say so every time.
Privacy
No personal data retained. Your information is yours. No exceptions, ever.
Free Forever
Funded by grants and donors — we will never charge the people we serve.
Our Leadership
LanternAid is run by a small team of dedicated volunteers who believe every older adult deserves clear answers.
Will is a rising senior in high school who is passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in his community. Through sports like lacrosse, basketball, and track and field, he has learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and dedication, and he loves outreach and service work that connects him with people who need support. Ron specializes in technology, with years of experience working with AI and building tools that are easy for everyone to use. His goal is to help seniors access support without any cost, and he has spent years studying new technological advancements so he can put them to good use for others. Together, they lead LanternAid's day-to-day operations and technology.
Questions about the things that matter most
From medical reports to benefit letters to legal notices — we help you understand what you have received, what it means, and what questions to ask next.
Health & Medical
We explain medical documents in plain language so you know what you've been told — and what to ask your doctor.
Legal Documents
We translate confusing legal language into clear, everyday terms before you make any decisions.
Benefits & Finances
We help you understand Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and other benefits you may qualify for.
Housing & Rights
Questions about your home, your landlord, or your rights as a tenant — we help you understand where you stand.
Daily Life Decisions
Any question that feels confusing or overwhelming — whatever is on your mind, we want to help.
Caregiver & Family
Family members and caregivers can reach us on behalf of a senior — however someone can contact us.
Please remember: LanternAid provides free, educational guidance only — not medical, legal, or financial advice. We help you understand your situation so you can have better conversations with your doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor.
Other free tools you can try
Alongside LanternAid, these are well-known AI assistants you can talk to directly, in plain language, for general questions. They are not run by LanternAid and are not reviewed by our volunteers.
A free AI assistant from Google that you can chat with by typing a question, right from your web browser.
A free AI assistant from OpenAI that answers questions and explains things in everyday language.
A free AI assistant from Anthropic, known for clear and careful answers to everyday questions.
Simple steps. Real answers.
You do not need to be comfortable with technology. You just need a question.
You reach out — any way you can
Call us by phone, use our simple online form, or have a family member contact us on your behalf. There is no wrong way to ask.
We protect your privacy first
Your question is organized by topic and any personal identifying information is removed before it is processed.
AI prepares a plain-language response
Our AI drafts a clear, compassionate answer in plain language — no jargon, no confusion.
A trained volunteer reviews it
A real human checks every response for accuracy, tone, and appropriateness before it reaches you.
We send it back your way, within 48 hours
Phone call, email, printed letter, or through your caregiver — your answer, your way.
Ways to reach us
- By phoneCall us directly or request a callback
- By email or web formSubmit your question online, any time
- Through a caregiverThey can reach us on your behalf
We are here. Ask anything.
No question is too small. Everything starts with simply reaching out.
Call us
(240) 668-4151 · Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm
Email us
Send us your question
LanternAid is not for emergencies. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.