PRE 2: Don’t forget silver surfers – Digital inclusion and literacy focused on seniors

Tetiana Kyryliuk

• Not all seniors have been away from technology, some of them stood in the roots of Internet.

• Security and accessibility are the most researched issues. When it comes to silver surfers not only age gap, but also gender, geographic location and socio-economic conditions should be taken into account. Adult learning methodology should start with raising awareness, followed by teaching digital tools based on individual approach.

• Generations do not exist in isolation, but live together, and often it’s not that much about infrastructural access but rather about increasing motivation of those who are 60-70+ to use technology, applications and improve their skills. Resistance of silver surfers to online education makes them more vulnerable.

• Medical services, delivery of goods and communication with family are of special importance to silver surfers when it comes to Internet usage. Majority of software and content are in English, which creates additional problem for silver surfers precluding them from fully enjoying the Internet usage. The software and applications should be as simple as possible to keep silver surfers inspired to continue digital learning.

• We should look into possibilities to create more common places for youngsters and elderly, for example combining schools and community centers. In rural areas, first we need Internet connection, then education in order to provide comprehensive assistance to silver surfers.