Digital skills are a gateway to ease of communication, strengthening human connections, accessing information and unlimited new discoveries. In today's increasingly online world, those failing to keep up with advancements in technology risk being left behind to struggle with outdated methods of contact, missing out on instantaneous interactions and quicker solutions to everyday problems.
Compared to its EU counterparts, Ireland has one of the lowest levels of digital literacy among those aged over 65. Just 19% within that age bracket consider themselves to have basic online skills, while the European Union’s average sits at 25%. Within Ireland, the statistics worsen in rural locations, as readily-available internet access isn’t always guaranteed.
In a bid to tackle this shortfall and the digital divide between generations, Vodafone Ireland Foundation, in partnership with ALONE, has established 'Hi Digital’, an educational step-by-step course designed to heighten the digital skills of anyone that’s eager to do so, particularly those that have avoided the online world up to now.
Established in 2021, the initiative was founded on the core value that everyone deserves to have access to a digital life. The internet should be easy to reach and understand, and people should have the confidence to do so freely.
Two in three older people have stated that they would welcome the opportunity to learn new skills if they had someone to support them in doing so. The course contents are very easy-to-follow, or if they prefer, participants can enlist the help of a family member or person of their choosing to assist their progress through the course. Mentor guides can help this person in supporting the learner with accessing and navigating the course.
The course consists of bite-sized lessons that cover key digital themes, including the basics of internet access, how to use online devices like smartphones, an essential guide to apps, staying secure online, booking trips, sourcing online entertainment, creating an email account and many other essential features that can help improve everyday life and combat isolation. Since accessing the online course can be a barrier in itself, Hi Digital is also running in-person training courses around the country this year.
Older people are at risk of social isolation and being left behind as the world continues to become more digitised. The knock-on effects of improved digital literacy are plentiful. The chores of everyday life can become easier, along with improved mental health thanks to the newfound confidence that comes with learning a new skill. Relationships can strengthen from increased knowledge of communication methods, hobbies can be explored in a digital context, and socialising and community participation can increase.
Hi Digital is bridging the digital gap between generations through practical online education. It’s actively helping older people get a firm grasp of the digital world, empowering them to remain socially connected and positively contributing to their overall wellbeing and independence.
For more information visit hidigital.ie or call ALONE on 1800 20 30 30.
