By Dionne Rose
Is the digital divide real? For many rural communities in Jamaica, it is, especially for seniors.
The digital divide is very much alive in rural communities across Jamaica, and the gap is even wider when it comes to seniors. I recently had a conversation with a senior librarian in St. Thomas, who shared a concerning story: seniors in the community are often afraid to use the computers in the library. In one case, some were even scared of the computer mouse.
While this might seem amusing, it underscores a real issue. For many seniors aged 65 and older, owning a computer or laptop is a rarity, especially in rural parishes. This is why resourcing parish libraries with modern IT equipment is crucial for narrowing the digital gap.
For those who can access these devices, there’s the added challenge of connectivity. How many people have access to the internet? According to Datareportal, Jamaica’s internet penetration rate was at 85.1% at the start of 2024, with 2.4 million internet users out of a population of roughly 2.83 million.
While this high penetration rate seems promising, the data doesn’t tell the full story, there’s no age breakdown. It’s safe to say, however, that digital literacy remains a significant challenge for seniors. This leaves them more vulnerable to online threats like lottery scams, phishing, and other forms of cybercrime.
So, what can be done? Seniors must not be left behind. There needs to be a concerted effort to pull them along and equip them with the digital skills they need to thrive in a tech-driven world. The National Council for Senior Citizens has made strides in providing training, but more needs to be done, especially as Jamaica’s population continues to age.
The importance of improving digital literacy among seniors isn’t just a social concern; it’s an issue that affects various sectors. Financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and other service providers all have a vested interest in ensuring that seniors can navigate digital platforms, as they too are valuable customers.
Here are five key Strategies to close the digital gap for seniors:
- Tailored Training Programs
Design basic digital literacy courses specifically for seniors, focusing on essential skills like using smartphones, browsing the internet, sending emails, and accessing social media. These programs can be implemented in churches, community centers, and parish libraries. - Intergenerational Learning
Pair seniors with tech-savvy younger individuals, such as students or volunteers, for personalised, one-on-one tutoring. This not only teaches valuable skills but also fosters meaningful social interaction. Churches, which often have a high senior population, are ideal venues for these intergenerational programs. - Peer Support Networks
Establish peer support groups where tech-savvy seniors can mentor their peers, creating a supportive and relatable environment for learning. This approach encourages ongoing digital skill development in a setting that seniors find comfortable. - Make Technology Accessible
Community organisations, churches, or senior groups can partner with local businesses or government agencies to provide seniors with affordable or free devices such as tablets, smartphones, or laptops. In addition, partnerships with internet providers can help offer low-cost broadband plans, reducing financial barriers to digital access. - Community Workshops and Drop-in Sessions
Host regular digital literacy workshops in familiar locations like libraries, community centers, and churches. These sessions should offer hands-on learning in a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, frequent drop-in sessions where seniors can bring their devices and ask specific questions will provide ongoing support.
Implementing these strategies can help bridge the digital divide for seniors, empowering them to engage with the digital world confidently and independently. By doing so, we not only bring them closer to their families and communities but also ensure they can safely access essential services online.
