“Digital Literacy for Seniors: Navigating an AI-Driven World”
Half-centurians and above need not give up hope
Introduction
As the world becomes increasingly AI-driven, digital literacy has become a vital aspect of daily life. However, many individuals like me, over the age of 50 years, find themselves struggling to keep up with the pace of technology advancements, leading to feelings of frustration, fear, and isolation. These “digital illiterates” are at risk of falling behind in an increasingly digitized society, making it crucial to explore the ways we can learn, adapt, and navigate the AI-driven world.
Difficulty faced by the “Digital Illiterates”
Digital illiteracy refers to a lack of knowledge and skills required to operate digital devices and utilize digital services. In the mid-1990s, a similar situation arose when the internet arrived and disrupted the world, leaving many older adults feeling overwhelmed and unprepared. However, over time, older adults adapted to the new technology, with many now actively using the internet and social media. The challenges faced by older adults in the current “Artificial Intelligence” age are quite similar, but with the right support and resources, they can learn to navigate the ever-changing technological landscape.
The fact of the matter is that fast-paced nature of technological advancements, especially in the domain of #AI applications like “ChatGPT3” and “Dream Studio”, leaves them feeling overwhelmed and anxious, often leading to demotivation and even depression. They feel that comprehending even the most rudimentary aspects of these tools is beyond their faculties or capacity. This is particularly unfortunate since most such applications are free, easy-to-use and increase one’s efficiency by an order of magnitude. This “digital isolation” also renders them more susceptible to cybercrimes, such as online scams and identity theft, which further deters them from using digital devices.
Brief roadmap for the seniors
How can they negotiate the rapidly-changing scenario:
- Start with the basics: To become digitally literate, older adults should start with the basics. They can enroll in beginner-level courses or workshops, such as those offered by local libraries or community centers. These courses cover basic digital skills, including how to use a computer, navigate the internet, and use social media.
- Seek help from family and friends: Younger family members and friends can help older adults become more digitally literate. They can offer one-on-one support, provide tutorials, and answer any questions they may have. Additionally, they can help older adults set up their devices and teach them how to use new applications.
- Embrace online resources: Older adults can explore online resources, such as YouTube tutorials and digital literacy websites. These resources offer step-by-step guidance on how to use digital devices and services. They can also join online forums or social media groups specifically for older adults to learn and connect with others.
- Attend digital literacy events: Many organizations host digital literacy events and workshops. These events provide a safe space for older adults to learn and ask questions about digital devices and services. They also offer opportunities to connect with other older adults who are going through similar challenges.
- Use accessible technology: Technology companies are recognizing the challenges faced by older adults and are developing more accessible technology. For example, devices such as smartphones and tablets have built-in accessibility features, such as larger text sizes and voice assistants, that can assist older adults in using these devices.
Risks, if they don’t
Failing to adapt to the digital world can have serious consequences for older adults. They risk becoming isolated from friends and family who communicate primarily through digital devices. They also miss out on opportunities to access essential services such as online banking and telehealth. Moreover, not being digitally literate can lead to scams and fraud, where criminals target vulnerable individuals, trick them into giving away sensitive information, and ultimately cause them to lose money.
Conclusion and way forward
In summary, digital illiteracy can be a significant challenge for older adults in a rapidly evolving AI-driven world. However, there are steps they can take to become sufficiently digitally literate and navigate the fast-evolving digital landscape. By starting with the basics, seeking help from family and friends, embracing online resources and using accessible technology, older adults can learn to use digital devices and services effectively.
Younger folks in the family have a special responsibility here towards the seniors since the use of these apps is best learnt by “know-how” rather than “know-why” techniques. Failure to adapt to the digital world can have serious consequences, making it crucial for older adults to learn and adapt to the changing technological landscape. As technology continues to advance, it is essential to ensure that all members of society have access to the digital world and can use it effectively. Else we, as a civilization, run the risk of having our elder generation feeling isolated and alienated, if not ostracized. We can’t afford this to happen.
To conclude: “The web of our life is of a mingled yarn, good and ill together” — (All’s Well That Ends Well, Act IV, Scene III). This could be more true than ever before.
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The author superannuated as Special Chief Secretary, Punjab in July, 2021, after nearly 37 years of service in the IAS.
He can be reached on kbs.sidhu@gmail.com
