Seniors encouraged to enhance digital skills during ‘Get Online Week’

·

It may be the time for your parents or grandparents to hop on social media as the NSW government encourages seniors to enhance their digital skills during Get Online Week.

Acting Minister for Seniors Geoff Lee said being skilled in an increasingly digital world is vital for our seniors to stay connected with their family and friends, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While our NSW seniors are better connected than ever, with more than 70 percent accessing the internet daily, we want all older people to have the chance to go digital,” Mr Lee said.

READ MORE: Exclusive: Multiculturalism Minister Geoff Lee thankful for Greek community’s response to restrictions
READ MORE: Multiculturalism minister boosts funding for vulnerable temporary visa holders

“NSW Seniors Card statistics show more than half the state’s older residents use smartphones, tablets or laptops but need help to upskill in social media interaction with family and friends.”

Technology training programs will be held across NSW at participating libraries and community colleges through the NSW Government’s Tech Savvy Seniors program. 

Tech Savvy Seniors offers a range of courses including a basic introduction to using tablets, computers, smartphones, email or social media.

Photo: Cleaning and maintenance management

Partnering with Telstra, Principal for Strategy and Inclusion Michael Parks said Tech Savvy Seniors is part of Telstra’s commitment to helping all Australians enjoy the benefits of being connected and engaged with digital technology.

“Telstra’s Australian Digital Inclusion Index research found age is a significant influence on digital inclusion in New South Wales. Seniors, or those aged over 65, are the largest digitally excluded group. Tech Savvy Seniors is a way to help address that,” Mr Parks said.

“Being confident in digital technologies can help break down social barriers, save money, and open up new learning and engagement opportunities for Seniors in their golden years.”

Courses can be also be delivered in Auslan and offered in a range of languages including Arabic, Assyrian, Cantonese, Hindi, Greek, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil and Vietnamese.

“Even if seniors have little or no digital experience they can join fun and practical classes to develop the skills and confidence to benefit from technology,” Mr Lee said.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Over $45,000 raised to make Pontian House accessible for all

A total of $45,476 has been raised by Pontoxeniteas NSW at its Winter Wonderland Gala 2025 to install a platform lift at the Pontian House.

Star Pharmacy Group CEO Peter Piliouras takes on Chemist Warehouse in expansion plan

Peter Piliouras, CEO of Star Pharmacy Group, is aiming to double the group’s chain, taking on industry giant Chemist Warehouse.

Landlord Margarita Constanti Salamakis taken to court as bakery owner fights eviction

Margarita Constanti Salamakis is facing legal action in NSW Supreme Court after issuing an eviction notice to Marrickville bakery Miss Sina.

Mario Alexandridis at centre of Strike Force Candice raids across Sydney

Low-profile entrepreneur Marios Alexandridis has been charged in a major money laundering and unexplained wealth investigation.

SA seafood heir Sarantis Parissos jailed over police hit-and-run

Former professional footballer and seafood heir Sarantis Parissos has been sentenced to over six years in jail after a series of offences.

You May Also Like

Kyrgios and Kokkinakis combine to conquer Australian Open doubles opponents

The two Greek Australians Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis have combined to take on and defeat Lloyd Harris and Julian Knowle in straight sets.

Meet Gina Altas: The founder of Help For Hirschsprung’s Disease

When Gina Altas’ son George was diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease around 10 years ago, it was only the beginning.  With barely any research, organisations, funding,...

Heavy storms in Greece result in three deaths

Three people died in torrential rain and thunderstorms that caused widespread flooding and disrupted transport in Greece on Monday, officials said.