Facilitating digital inclusion for the elderly

PIDA (Points of Digital Inclusion), a project developed by AlfabeTICs60, aims at “bringing” digital inclusion to a greater number of older people. To achieve this, a network of digital inclusion points is being implemented to facilitate access, offer training and provide ongoing support in the use of technologies to this segment of the population.

In each neighbourhood, PIDA proposes to establish permanent points of attention aimed at resolving the technological doubts of the elderly. In addition, it seeks to establish collaborations with other associations, public centres and entities representing this demographic group to strengthen the network.

According to the most recent statistics from the National Statistics Institute (INE), Spain has experienced a notable increase in the number of people over the age of 64 in relation to the population under the age of 16, with 133 older people for every 100 younger people by 2022. This phenomenon reflects a clear trend towards an ageing population, posing significant challenges in terms of care and services for this ever-growing demographic segment.

It is alarming to note that almost half of the people aged 65-74 using the internet in Spain have very limited or even non-existent digital skills. This phenomenon, known as the generational digital divide, highlights the urgent need to implement specific programmes and strategies aimed at fostering digital literacy among older people in order to ensure their full integration and participation in the digital age.

Research has shown the significant benefits that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can bring to the process of active ageing. Beyond facilitating connection with family and friends, ICTs offer a wide range of opportunities for lifelong learning, social participation and the maintenance of cognitive and emotional health in older people. These tools have become indispensable allies in promoting healthy, independent ageing and a higher quality of life.

Volunteering plays a key role in bridging the digital divide and promoting the social inclusion of older people. Through the transfer of knowledge and technological skills, volunteers play a crucial role in the personalised accompaniment and empowerment of older adults in the use of ICTs. In addition, volunteering promotes social cohesion and the strengthening of intergenerational links, thus contributing to the construction of a more supportive and inclusive society for all ages.

The general objective of the PIDA Project is to facilitate the digital inclusion of older people, promoting their access, training and continuous support in the use of digital technologies, in order to improve their quality of life, promote active and healthy ageing, and enhance their full participation in the digital society. 

The aim is to provide continuous digital accompaniment. To provide constant and regular support to older people, attending to their doubts and needs related to the use of digital technologies as long as they require it.  

How do we do it? We establish collaboration agreements with various organisations, such as associations, companies and entities, to broaden the scope and impact of the project in the community. Networking with other entities is sought. 

 

In each PIDA, different activities are carried out, which are detailed below: 

Group sessions: This is a training proposal to provide the older population with digital tools and resources, in order to bridge the existing digital generation gap and thus the inequality of opportunities, as well as to enable active ageing and facilitate communication and interaction of this sector of the population. 

Individual counselling sessions: Organise individual sessions with each older person to address their specific doubts and needs related to the use of digital technologies. During these sessions, they will receive personalised support and guidance in the use of digital devices and applications. 

Mentoring programme: Establish a mentoring programme in which older people with more advanced digital skills become mentors for those who are just starting out in the use of digital technologies. Mentors will be able to offer guidance, support and share their experiences to help others overcome barriers and gain confidence in using digital tools. 

Refresher and follow-up sessions: Conduct regular refresher and follow-up sessions for those who have received previous training. These sessions will serve to review and reinforce acquired knowledge, resolve additional doubts and address new digital functionalities or applications that are relevant for older people. 

Digital socialisation sessions: Organise sessions where older people can interact and socialise digitally with each other, through video conferencing platforms, social networks or other digital tools. These sessions can include activities such as chats, online games, sharing experiences and building friendships. The main objective of this group intervention is the socialisation of older people, weaving new networks and relationships between them and taking advantage of this environment to further advance their digital literacy.  These experiences can range from visiting a museum or local landmark, learning how to use the camera on their device, scanning QR codes to consult the menu of a hotel or catering establishment, or using new sales terminals such as touch screens in a textile shop. 

The PIDA project starts at the end of 2023 and currently serves 8 inclusion points. It is expected to close the year 2024 with 20 active PIDAs and having served more than 500 elderly people in the different centres. There are several reasons that justify the community impact of the PIDA project on the target population. Here are some examples:

Digital inclusion: The PIDA project seeks to promote the digital inclusion of older people, which is essential in today’s digital society. By providing access, training and support in the use of digital technologies, they are given the opportunity to participate fully in the digital age, access information, services and opportunities online, and stay connected with their loved ones.

Improving quality of life: Digital literacy contributes directly to improving the quality of life of older people. It provides them with tools to complete online formalities, access health services, communicate with family and friends, access relevant information, and participate in leisure and entertainment activities, enabling them to lead more autonomous, active and enriching lives.

Active and healthy ageing: Participation in the PIDA project promotes active and healthy ageing. Learning and practising digital technologies stimulates the brain, promotes the acquisition of new skills and provides opportunities for socialisation and participation in community activities, which has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of older people.

Strengthening the social fabric: The PIDA project contributes to strengthening the social fabric by promoting older people’s participation in the community. By referring stakeholders to the digital inclusion points, it fosters their integration in social activities, creates meeting spaces and promotes interaction between people of different generations, creating an environment of collaboration, support and mutual enrichment.

Reducing social isolation: Digital inclusion through the PIDA project helps to reduce the social isolation of older people. By enabling them to access communication tools such as video calls, instant messaging and social networks, it facilitates connection with family, friends and the wider community, contributing to greater social participation and a sense of belonging.

Empowerment and autonomy: The PIDA project empowers older people by providing them with the knowledge and skills to use digital technologies autonomously. This enables them to make informed decisions, carry out procedures and formalities on their own, and have greater control over their own lives, thus improving their autonomy and confidence.

Promoting volunteering and active participation: The PIDA project not only focuses on the digital literacy of older people, but also promotes their active participation as digital volunteers and referrers at the inclusion points. This gives them the opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences with other older adults, strengthening their sense of purpose and contributing positively to the community.

 

Learn more about it here and here.