Have you ever noticed how incredibly intertwined our daily lives are with the internet? Sometimes, something as simple as making a quick EFT payment is usually done online. For younger generations, it is much easier to keep up with technological advancements and how to use and apply them, but what about older people?
What Is Digital Inclusion?
Digital inclusion is about making sure that everyone has access and the capabilities to use technology, such as the internet, so that they can participate socially and economically. With the 2027 landline switch-off, digital inclusion is crucial.
What Is Digital Literacy?
Digital literacy refers to the capability of a person to utilise information technologies and the internet. Someone who has good digital literacy is able to live, learn, work, participate, and be successful in a digital era.
There are certain groups of people who are often left behind in a digital era. These groups typically include:
- Older generations
- Unemployed people
- Homeless people
- Uneducated people
- Disabled people
- People who have a different home language than English
How Broadband Affects Digital Literacy?
Broadband has an incredibly positive effect on digital literacy through several ways:
Access
Since broadband has become increasingly popular for home use, more and more senior citizens have learned the value of broadband. Having high-speed internet that allows senior citizens to watch YouTube tutorials or attend online classes, broadband offers senior citizens the tools and opportunity to learn and practice new technologies.
Connection
Broadband makes it incredibly easy for senior citizens to keep in touch with their loved ones through platforms such as Zoom or other VoIP communication platforms such as WhatsApp. Using platforms like these can help boost senior citizens’ confidence and digital experience.
Resources
Broadband makes it possible for seniors to explore online libraries or tools such as Google, enabling them to learn an array of new things. This helps senior citizens to appreciate the value of digital technologies and assists them in becoming proficient in using these tools.
What Challenges Do Senior Citizens Face In A Digital World?
Digital literacy is a huge barrier for senior citizens, and it isn’t always easy to adapt to a digital world. Here are some challenges senior citizens face in a digital era:
Fear Of Technology
Senior citizens probably did not grow up using technology from such a young age as current generations. Hence, there is a fear of things they don’t know. Some older people will also write it off as them not being smart enough to use technology. While none of this may be true, older generations might fear using technology or even learning how to use it.
Scams Or Tricks
Some senior citizens are vulnerable when it comes to online practices, which makes them easy targets for scams and tricks. Since senior citizens are usually not clued up on all the best practices for staying safe online, people may try to scam elderly individuals, and this can make them lose confidence in their digital abilities.
Technological Skills
Struggling with basic technological tools such as instant messaging can create helplessness and frustration for senior citizens. These emotions usually cause them to resist technology altogether. Resisting technology can potentially result in many limitations in communications and areas such as emotional and health well-being.
Accessibility Barrier
Disabilities such as poor eyesight and hearing can hinder senior citizens from using digital technologies effectively. Digital platforms aren’t usually created with the elderly in mind, and this can make it frustrating and difficult for senior citizens to use them if they have any impairments.
What Benefits Does Digital Literacy Have For Senior Citizens?
Embracing the digital era can have many benefits for senior citizens, such as:
Quality Of Life
Becoming competent with the internet and digital technologies can have great effects on factors such as physical, mental, educational, and technological realms.
Better Social Connections
Broadband makes it easier for senior citizens to foster relationships through tools such as video calling. This helps to combat loneliness that many elderly people face.
Independence
Being proficient in using broadband for digital activities such as ordering groceries or medicine can help create a sense of independence.
Access To Health And Education
Broadband makes it possible for senior citizens to take online courses from home to keep them busy and learning. It also enables them to consult their doctors online from the convenience of their own homes.
Is Technology Important For The Elderly?
It is vital for the elderly to become well-versed in the digital era to ensure that they are not left behind. As technology advances, more and more tasks can be done online rather than in person, which can be a convenient change for the elderly. Even though there are challenges, such as overcoming the fear of technology and avoiding scams, there are many benefits for senior citizens in adopting a digital era. These benefits can include providing a sense of independence as well as improving their quality of life. Broadband does have a significant effect on digital literacy in senior citizens.
