Limerick City and County Council’s Library Service is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Vodafone Foundation Ireland and ALONE, aimed at empowering older adults with digital skills and technology access.
Linda Fitzgerald, Student volunteering manager UL, Mayor of Limerick John Moran, Stephanie Casey, Vodafone Foundation and Noreen O’Neill, Limerick Libraries. Picture: Don Moloney.
Through this initiative, older individuals can borrow Age-Friendly tablets from the City Centre, Watch House Cross, Dooradoyle, Abbeyfeale, Adare, Kilmallock and Newcastle West libraries. These tablets are equipped with mobile data, enabling older adults to connect to the internet and discover the online world from their own homes.
Participants will also have the opportunity to try out the free Hi Digital* course developed by Vodafone Foundation with ALONE. The course is set up on the tablets and features step by step lessons that teach people how to access the internet; use smartphones; stay safe online and identify potential scams.
This initiative works towards bridging the digital divide as older adults often encounter several barriers when accessing digital services:
- Lack of Access: Many older individuals do not have access to digital devices or the internet.
- Digital Skills Gap: There is often a lack of adequate digital skills, experience, and self-confidence.
- Motivation and Relevance: Some older adults may not see the relevance of digital technology to their lives or lack the motivation to learn.
- Physical and Cognitive Barriers: Age-related physical or cognitive impairments can make using technology more challenging.
- Privacy and Security Concerns: Fear of privacy loss, data protection issues, and online scams can deter older adults from engaging with digital services.
Speaking at the launch at Limerick City Library, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran highlighted the initiative’s impact:
“Improving digital skills and online confidence among older people will help combat isolation and loneliness and allow our elder neighbours to fully access commerce and services like government services as more and more of them move to digital platforms. This collaborative effort is a fantastic response to the growing issue of digital exclusion among older adults. It aligns with our vision for a more inclusive and resilient Limerick, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a fast-changing world.”
Stephanie Casey, Vodafone Foundation Hi Digital Project Manager said:
“At Vodafone Foundation, we believe that technology can be a bridge to connection and independence for older adults. We are thrilled to partner with Limerick Libraries, ALONE and University of Limerick to empower individuals in our community with the digital skills they need to engage confidently and safely with the world around them”.
Limerick City and County Librarian, Damien Brady added:
“Limerick Libraries support people at all stages of their lives to develop and maintain the skills to navigate life in our changing world. We are delighted with this partnership which will enhance opportunities for older people to access to the digital world.”
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