u3a - Digital Life and Legacy

It’s never been easier than today for people to access information and education, and to connect with others and create communities. All this can be achieved safely and at low or no cost, with some basic digital skills.

Connected technology can give us a wealth of tools and services that can improve our lives, now and in the future – helping us in so many ways to widen our horizons and introduce us to technology that can potentially make our lives better.

N.B. The Future Lives Group isn’t recommending any gadgets or programmes – below we list some sites that you may find useful. Please criticise or contribute by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

What digital skills do I need?

The UK government has defined the digital skills that are essential to modern living. You can find more details on them here. They are:

Communicating: Using digital tools to exchange information through emails, messaging apps, or social media platforms.
Handling Information and Content: Being able to find, evaluate, and manage digital information such as searching the Web, understanding online sources and organising digital files.
Transacting: Understanding how to carry out transactions online, such as making payments, shopping or using online banking services.
Problem Solving: The ability to troubleshoot digital issues, adapt to new technologies, and solve problems related to digital tools and applications.
Safe and Legal Online: Knowing how to protect personal information, recognise online threats and adhere to legal and ethical guidelines while online.

Developing Online Skills

AbilityNet is a charity whose vision is “a digital world accessible to all.” They offer digital support for all, from older people to digital professionals advocating for accessibility best practices in their organisation. They have recently worked with BT and Age UK on a project called “Digital skills training for the over 65s”, and they offer far more.

AbilityNet

Agespace supports older people by offering specific guidance on how to use technology, ranging from setting up Skype to streaming a funeral online. It also makes recommendations for specific devices and gadgets suitable for older adults.

Agespace

Access to Technology: Broadband, Phones & Other Devices

Whilst this list is not exhaustive, it can be a helpful place to start when exploring different aspects of getting online:

Simple Telecoms offer broadband for seniors on a 30-day contract, big-button phones and special phone deals for retired people.
Money Supermarket offer similar deals, some of them senior-specific.
AbilityNet also offer some devices for older adults.
Agespace give very clear guidance on “where to start with tech.”