2024 HAPI Honorable Mention
THE PROBLEM
In today’s digital age, where essential activities such as online banking, cashless transactions, accessing government services, and managing healthcare appointments and prescriptions online are commonplace, many older persons find themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Limited access to technology and digital skills often hinders their ability to participate fully in digital society.
The COVID-19 pandemic starkly highlighted these disparities, requiring older persons to rapidly adapt to online communication and service platforms due to social distancing measures. However, many faced difficulties due to inadequate digital literacy, which exacerbated feelings of isolation and limited their access to crucial information and support networks. Older people are also often a target for online scams that can leave them vulnerable to financial exploitation and identity theft, impacting their trust in digital platforms and hindering their willingness to engage online.
THE INNOVATION
MyAgeing has developed a Digital Literacy for Older Persons program that aims to enhance the digital skills of older persons, enabling them to navigate online platforms, access essential services, and stay connected with their communities. The program includes five comprehensive educational modules: (1) mobile devices, (2) mobile navigation and tracking, (3) communication and messaging, (4) online shopping, e-wallets, and self-checkout machines, and (4) accessing trusted content and online services.
This pioneering module is evidence-based, drawing on best practices and needs assessments in digital literacy education for older individuals. MyAgeing began by conducting extensive research and needs assessments to understand the digital literacy gaps and preferences among older persons across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Structured to meet the unique needs and learning preferences of older persons, the modules provide user-friendly and step-by-step tutorials on essential digital skills. By emphasizing practical applications relevant to daily life, the modules aim to enhance digital literacy and confidence among older persons.
The program draws on a network of trained volunteer digital mentors to provide one-on-one teaching, combined with a self-learning approach, thereby ensuring personalized and accessible education. This personalized approach ensures that each participant receives tailored assistance based on their unique learning needs and preferences, even in home-based learning settings. By enhancing older persons’ digital skills, the aim is to empower them to access essential services, connect with others, and improve their overall well-being.
The modules are available for download online, and MyAgeing has worked with senior centers and community organizations to reach their target audience.