How can we help older people learn new technology?
Community-building can be changing. What once used to be a face-to-face connection is now expanding to more online settings; think FaceTime, virtual events, and Facebook groups. And with more than one in three people over 65 lacking the skills needed to use the internet, there’s a real danger that our older loved ones may be missing out on opportunities to connect with the world around them. Helping relatives learn new technology is not just a helpful thing to do, but is so important in combatting social isolation, and reducing loneliness.
So, where should you start?
Understanding digital exclusion
Digital exclusion is a barrier for lots of people, but it disproportionately affects older adults. It’s a term used to describe limited access to digital technologies, whether this be the internet, mobile phones or other devices, and using any online service.
For some, this could mean not having reliable or affordable internet, but for others it could be a lack of confidence in using devices. When something’s unfamiliar to you, but everyone else seems to know how it works, it can feel quite alienating and hard to ask for help.
It’s not embarrassing to not know how to use a smartphone, and we all have to start somewhere. Whilst it may come more naturally to younger generations, we can all use these knowledge swaps to help bridge the generational gap, and improve older adults’ access to technology.
Confidence comes with support
It’s important to take technology day-by-day, and not introduce too many elements at once. If you’re teaching an older adult whose main priority is calling relatives, this will mean walking them through a typical phone screen, showing them where they can find their contacts, and how they can set up their voicemail. For others, the goal may be to find wider communities and connect with new people, which will mean a debrief on social media, and helping them set up a Facebook (or equivalent platform) profile.
What takes 10 minutes to teach could provide older adults with hours of entertainment, but it requires active listening and support. Of course, you may not always be there to teach them something, but you can start by signposting them to resources that could answer their questions. There are comprehensive guides available, like this one from Age UK, that you can print off for your loved ones, so information is always within reach.
Using assistive tools
Phone screens are small, and it may be that features are hard to spot. Smart phones have built-in accessibility options for this, designed for eyesight impairments, and audio settings that can help those hard of hearing.
Tools like a stylus can be helpful when typing messages, especially for those with limited dexterity, and screen readers turns on-screen text into audible speech, helpful for those with low vision. There are also devices specifically designed for older people, which offer better functionality and are typically seen as more straightforward, such as the GrandPad.
It’s also not about older adults going fully digital, but just having the right amount of knowledge to navigate the internet and their chosen platforms. Features like passkeys and two-factor authentication do offer an extra level of security, but it’s not necessarily essential knowledge. Instead, you can have passwords written on paper (and kept in a safe place) for those who may have trouble remembering their login details. It’s about finding the right mix between new technology, and familiar methods.
Staying safe online
Technology can be a great asset in older people’s lives, but in teaching our loved ones the benefits of digital products, we also have to make them aware of the risks. Whilst online safety is repeatedly taught to younger generations, it’s something that hasn’t been prioritised for older adults, meaning many people are susceptible to scam messages, and other forms of online abuse.
Use real-life examples when warning relatives about potential scams, and show them how to identify fake email addresses, pop-up warnings, and phishing techniques. Instruct them to not share personal information and bank details, and be wary of clicking links and attachments, even if it’s from a username they recognise.
Putting the time in to teach internet usage now can give your loved ones more confidence for later, combatting digital exclusion and giving people the opportunity to interact with the community around them. Staying social, even if it’s now digital, is more important than ever in highlighting support networks, and showing older adults they are not alone.
At Birchwood Care Services, we can help support and assist with new technologies, ensuring your loved ones are still able to have new experiences. See other examples of our services here, or get in touch to find out more.
