Getting Digital

“Everything is computerised – I wanted to learn about it to not get left behind.”

Wendy was referred to the Locality Link Officer as part of a group referral and expressed a desire to learn how to use a laptop to keep in touch with family, use e-mail and Skype, and to be able to shop online. Wendy is aged 65+ and lives within a supported living complex. The house had applied for re-shaping care for older people to purchase a 4G dongle and a Google Chrome notebook for each learner to keep. Space was found in a communal area for the small group to meet. Wendy also had access to broadband within her own living space.

“We have a laugh with each other too”.

As part of the group Wendy co-designed the learning opportunities with the Learning Coordinator (LC) for the 12 week course; informing the content and learning outcomes. Wendy had never used a computer before and was motivated to learn to keep her brain active and learn new skills.

“Good for memory”, Keeps your brain alert”

During the first couple of weeks, Wendy had doubts that she would be able to learn these new skills because she felt her progress was slow; learning initially how to safely log on and off, and to use the keyboard and mouse. Wendy demonstrated successfully completing two learning outcomes by the end of the group sessions and reported increased confidence. Within the group sessions Wendy received some one to one support from the LC and volunteer which was tailored to her needs.

During the course, Wendy experienced a period of physical ill health affecting her mobility on a temporary basis. This meant that she was unable to go out. The new learning allowed her to make use of online banking and shopping as well as regularly emailing her family and browsing the internet.

“Good exercise for people with arthritis like me – so fingers don’t stiffen up”

Wendy has already demonstrated putting her skills into practice out with the group setting and has her own equipment and broadband to enable her to continue developing her digital skills which she says she is determined to do.  “I like looking up things I’m interested in, getting away from the television, passes your time, learning things, great bargains on Amazon.”

“Don’t give up – you will get there once you get the gist of it!”

Get in touch with Lead to start getting digital today.