Seniors breaching the digital divide in Cooma

The program guides local older people through the basics of phone, computer and tablet use. Designed by and delivered in partnership with the NSW State Government and Telstra, the program guides participants through a step-by-step progression to establish their fundamental ability and confidence.

“Our Tech Savvy Seniors program is delivered by our wonderful Library staff, free-of-charge, to help the older members of our community who want to catch up with the technology of the day,” said Mayor Peter Beer, Snowy Monaro Regional Council.

“Without these fundamental skills it can be exceptionally difficult to navigate the world we live in, and Council is proud to be helping bridge the technology literacy gap between younger and older people.”

This most recent session concentrated on setting up and interacting with an email account, which can be an early barrier preventing further digital participation for many older people.

Participants reported that the program so far had helped them to become more self-reliant and participate more meaningfully in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Due to the success of the program so far, Council has successfully secured additional funding to add more intermediate-level sessions later this year.

Staff and participants are both hopeful that increased support from the state government through the next round of funding will enable expansion of the program with an increased number of sessions and into Bombala Library.