MAY 11, 2021 - NEW CLASSES HELP SENIORS BECOME TECH SAVVY

The Cassowary Coast has resumed a free initiative that provides digital literacy education to seniors, helping them to get connected and participate in the online world.

After being on hold due to COVID-19, the Tech Savvy Sessions have resumed in Cardwell, Innisfail, Tully and Mission Beach Libraries with topics based around basic computer skills, smartphones and tablets, introduction to the internet, emails, social media and staying safe online.

Session dates and times vary between branches, with each subject having a stand-alone session, giving customers the flexibility to attend topics that are of interest to them.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan said as our everyday lives become reliant on technology, it is important that as a community we assist and educate our seniors so they feel capable when using technology.

“Providing a supportive space for seniors to learn these skills can reduce the stress and encourage seniors to feel confident when they are using technology.

“It also has a huge focus on increasing digital inclusion, teaching seniors how to socialise and connect through online platforms, helping to reduce the feeling of isolation and connect them with friends and family that now due to COVID might not be as easily possible,” Mayor Nolan said.

To extend this program further, where permitted, Library staff will look to visit retirement homes to teach residents how to use smartphones and tablets for socialising and accessing eLibrary resources.

The Tech Savvy Seniors Queensland Program is an ongoing partnership between the Queensland Government (led by State Library of Queensland) and Telstra.

In line with QLD Health recommendations, COVID-19 rules and regulations will be taken to ensure the health and safety of all participants.

For more information on the sessions available and how to become involved call 1300 366 616 or visit a Library branch today.

Bookings are essential.