Vodafone is launching a nationwide programme of tech masterclasses after a report commissioned by the mobile network revealed that technology can help alleviate loneliness among the over 50’s.
The report sets out how technology can play a vital role in alleviating loneliness in older people by keeping them connected to their family and friends for longer. However, it also highlights that a significant number of older people are not confident in using technology, including accessing the internet. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows a third of older adults (65+) identify themselves as only “a little confident” or “not at all confident” in their ability to use electronic devices for essential online activities.
The ‘techconnect’ masterclasses will take place across the UK this year following a successful pilot last month. At the masterclasses, Vodafone tech team advisors will provide information and advice on everything from ‘how do I set up my phone’ to ‘how do I use social media’. Visitors will also help set up wearable tech and connected home devices and explain how they work. These devices can help people live more independently for longer.
Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said: “Loneliness doesn’t just have an economic cost – it has a profound human cost too, and can be hugely damaging to our health and happiness. It affects people of all ages and backgrounds and is something any of us or our loved ones could experience during our lifetimes. So it is important we do everything we can to reduce loneliness and isolation and provide help to those who need it.
“As people, we all need to feel part of something. This basic instinct of belonging and community is central to happiness – and is at the heart of our work across the health and care system.
“We launched our first ever loneliness strategy last year, and through our Ageing Society Grand Challenge we want to harness innovation to tackle loneliness and support healthy ageing. New technologies and services that can help people stay connected and independent will play an important role in this. We are also investing in social prescribing schemes through the NHS Long Term Plan to see healthcare professionals playing a vital role in signposting people to local services and connecting them back to their communities.”
Nick Jeffery, CEO, Vodafone UK said: “The cost of loneliness to the individual, their friends and the economy is vast. This cost is financial, emotional and physical. It requires a comprehensive response from government, charities, the health system and businesses. With an increasingly ageing population we have to act quickly and work together to help solve the problem of loneliness.
“Our report shows how technology and innovation, such as smart devices, as well as teaching tech skills can play an important role in reducing loneliness and enabling people to live independently for longer.”
A series of 20 free techconnect events will take place across the UK in 2019. To register interest people can simply go to their local retail store or visit www.vodafone.co.uk/techconnect.
