Picture this: it's a sunny afternoon, you hear your grandparents on their terrace, reminiscing about their youth. Their generation has lived through so much they have a treasure trove of stories to share, but when it comes to today's digital world, they feel like outsiders looking in. In an era where technology is part of our daily lives, it's easy to assume that everyone is moving along absorbing everything at once. However, many people, especially the older generations, feel overwhelmed by the abundance of technology available today. It is vital to understand the challenges faced by that particular generation and find ways to improve their experience. In this blog, we delve into the challenges faced by the elderly in adapting to the digital age, shedding light on their feelings of exclusion and the urgent need for bridging this digital gap.
The Digital Age Unfolded
The last few decades have witnessed unprecedented advancements in technology, reshaping the way we live, work, and communicate. The internet, smartphones, and social media platforms have become omnipresent, revolutionising everything from education to healthcare. For many of us, these digital innovations bring out convenience, efficiency, and connectivity.
However, not everyone can enjoy the benefits of the digital age. The digital divide, a term that signifies the gap between those with access to and proficiency in technology and those without, is most conspicuous among the elderly population. We’ve seen an enormous increase in smartphone ownership from 18% to 61% in the over 65s category in less than a decade. However, owning a device doesn’t necessarily mean they know how to use it. Statistics reveal a stark reality: a significant portion of older adults, around 77%, struggles to embrace the digital era.
So what are the challenges faced by the elderly?
Lack of Digital Literacy and Technological Skills: Many elderly individuals did not grow up with computers and smartphones. As a result, they often lack the fundamental digital literacy skills required to browse the internet, send emails, or use applications effectively.
Physical Limitations and Barriers to Technology Use: Aging can bring physical challenges, such as reduced dexterity, diminished vision, and hearing loss. These impairments make it challenging for elderly individuals to interact with small screens, tiny buttons, and touch-sensitive interfaces.
Social Isolation and the Role of Technology: The digital age has transformed social interactions, with communication increasingly occurring online. For older people, who may already be dealing with feelings of isolation, the inability to connect with loved ones through digital means can exacerbate their sense of loneliness.
Privacy and Security Concerns: Older users are often more cautious when it comes to technology due to concerns about online privacy and security. Scams, phishing attempts, and identity theft are genuine worries for them, and for a good reason.
The Emotional Impact
We’re not just talking about practical difficulties. These challengers also take a significant emotional toll on our parents, grandparents and older relatives. Many of them feel excluded from a world that is increasingly reliant on technology. They experience a sense of alienation, as if they're being left behind in a rapidly changing landscape.
To put it bluntly, it’s like pulling the rug from under your feet. This emotional impact can lead to more severe consequences, such as mental health issues. The feeling of isolation can contribute to depression and anxiety among elderly individuals who feel disconnected from their digitally-engaged peers. They can also feel helpless and no longer “fit for purpose”. Imagine what it must feel like to see everyone around you carrying on and doing things you’ve physically unable to do. These are the people who held your hand as you first learned to walk, who kept you safe when you were vulnerable, who helped you step into a world and learn its ropes to not only survive, but thrive. And guess what? If you’re lucky, you’ll be them one day too.
So how do we bridge this massive digital gap?
Initiatives and Programs: Community-based initiatives and government programmes can offer digital literacy training for the elderly, empowering them with essential skills to navigate the digital world. There are also specific charities that focus on helping the elderly with technology.
User-Friendly Technology: Tech companies should prioritise creating user-friendly interfaces that consider the needs of older users, including larger fonts, intuitive navigation, and voice-activated commands. This is why OnIt is voice-first and very user-friendly.
Intergenerational Learning: Encouraging younger generations to mentor and assist elderly family members or community members in using technology can be incredibly effective in reducing the digital gap.
Empowering the Elderly in the Digital Age
Ultimately, our goal should be to empower elders in our families and communities to reap the benefits of the digital age without feeling overwhelmed or excluded. By fostering a sense of inclusivity, promoting digital literacy, and designing technology with accessibility in mind, we can create a digital world that enriches the lives of every generation.
I like to help my grandparents keep up as much as possible. I set up their smartphones, install apps, go through tutorials, troubleshoot on the go whenever they need help and generally do my best for them not to feel left behind. As I write this, my grandmother is trying to have a conversion with a friend over WhatsApp and clearly has no clue how to switch the camera to show her the stuff she knitted last weekend. She’s muting and unmuting herself, making her camera full screen, literally pressing all the buttons but the right one. The sigh of desperation is so loud that I now wonder if me pushing for her to keep up is bringing her more stress than joy. Luckily my grandpa came to her rescue. My “lessons” paid off.
What’s Next in the Digital Age
Technology will continue to evolve rapidly. We’re in the phase of AI, metaverse, crypto and everything in between. It's crucial not to leave anyone behind, especially our elderly. Their struggles with technology should not lead to isolation or despair. By recognising these challenges and taking steps to address them, we can build a more connected, inclusive, and compassionate digital future for all generations.
It's not just about embracing technology; it's about ensuring that technology embraces everyone. And it’s also about making everyone feel useful and giving them a fair chance of keeping up. I love sending my grandparents tasks on OnIt like “can you get me a loaf of bread from your bakery on Monday” or reminders to watch something I recommend. It makes them feel like they can still contribute to my life in a more practical way and I am immensely proud to have built something they can use.
Comments