Tech Savvy Seniors In Cowra

The NSW Government’s Tech Savvy Seniors program is celebrating a decade of helping seniors dive into the digital world with confidence.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said more than 119,000 seniors throughout NSW have mastered their computer skills through the program since its inception in 2012.

By building knowledge, skills and confidence through this program, our seniors have gone on to thrive in our digital world – from managing their banking online to watching videos of their grandchildren on social media.

“The Tech Savvy Seniors program has been fantastic at unlocking the benefits that come with being online for our older community members,” Ms Cooke said. Cowra Shire Council’s Director of Corporate Services, Michael Jones, said Cowra Library is pleased to work with the Tech Savvy Seniors program to provide training for mature people entering the digital world. “Since we have implemented sessions at the Cowra Library over 240 people have beefed up their understanding and skills with computers, internet and smart-phones,” Mr Jones said.

“Whether their motivation was to stay in touch with remotely located grandchildren or mastering the intricacies of safe online shopping, this partnership delivered positive outcomes for the participants.”

Manager of Central West Libraries, Roslyn Cousins, notes that Public Libraries provide important access to computing and the internet for people who may not have home access or limited resources.

“Working with Tech Savvy Seniors enables us to build increasingly important tech skills with people who aren’t from the generations for whom digital has always been part of their life,” Ms Cousins said.

The Tech Savvy Seniors program is a partnership between the NSW Government and Telstra, providing free or low-cost technology training to seniors through public libraries and community colleges. The program caters to a variety of different languages and offers a range of lessons in mobile phone use, internet use, email, tablets, and details on how to be safe online. “I encourage seniors to attend these worthwhile sessions — it is also fun and an opportunity to get together with others in your community.”

The program continues to benefit seniors by increasing independence, increasing their use of online services, enhancing their social connectedness, providing greater ability to pursue hobbies and interests, and increasing self-esteem and confidence. Seniors wishing to participate can visit https://www.telstra.com.au/tech-savvy-seniors to find out more.

• Topics:
• Science / Technology
• Seniors