During this pandemic, I’m sure we have all been online to look at healthcare information, however 57% of this vulnerable group are unable to log onto any device to see how best to protect themselves. In a time when social distancing is at the forefront of everyone’s minds, over half of those aged 75 and above are unable to see the faces of their loved ones, because they are digitally excluded from the growing online community.
Digital poverty
COVID-19 has highlighted digital poverty to the extreme. There may be several reasons for older generations not being online, but finances certainly appear to play a significant part in the situation. Of those aged 75+, nearly two-thirds who are in the highest socio-economic groups use the internet compared to just a fifth in the lowest socio-economic group[2].
Through using technology to replace those human interactions we normally have with our loved ones, we know that seeing their faces is a major contribution in reducing our stress levels and improving our mental health, especially if we live alone.
Arguably, over the past few weeks, a large proportion of the advice given to the nation from the government has been guided by or directed towards online information, meaning missed opportunities for the older, more vulnerable members of society. Isolation for the over 70’s will naturally be a lonely time, especially if an individual lives alone, which is where being an active “silver surfer” would allow them more accessible communication with their loved ones.
At a time like this, it really proves the importance of digital skills and how much more involved in a new way of living the over 70’s could be if they had the skills and the financial stability to invest in smart phones, tablets or laptops/computers.
Unintended consequences
So, what are the unintended consequences? In the current predicament, isolation and loneliness remain two very separate things; nonetheless, being in isolation - but connected and online - can help prevent loneliness and help create a better state of mental health. A large proportion of our over 70’s population are immediately alienated from a world of connectivity, simply because they are not equipped with the right skills.
Removing coronavirus from the equation, currently in the UK, 9% of older people feel cut off from society[3], this is an area where digital inclusion could potentially make a difference to loneliness and mental health. 17% of the older population report they are in contact with family, friends and neighbours less than once a week[4].
This is a real opportunity for the government, organisations, families and friends to change this and ensure the UK’s elderly have access to the devices and basic digital skills that would enable them to navigate uncertain times like now, ensuring they can experience the best mental health possible and feel supported.
The importance of digital
The Chair of the BCS Society Board and Healthcare Management Consultant, Kathy Farndon, highlights the importance of digital for the vulnerable in society:
