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About the Essential Digital Skills Program

The Midway Social Centre Society has secured grant funding to develop and deliver a Digital Literacy program for seniors, with a focus on the West Boundary area. This initiative is designed to empower older adults with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the digital world effectively.
Research shows that adults aged 65 and older face significant challenges in accessing and using digital technologies, creating a gap between them and younger generations who navigate the digital landscape with ease. To address this, the program will accommodate a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8 participants.
Today, the technological divide impacts seniors in critical ways:

• Limited access to online services – including healthcare portals, banking, and shopping
• Reduced social connections – especially with family members who rely on digital communication
• Missed opportunities for learning and entertainment
• Decreased independence in managing daily tasks

Digital training helps seniors engage with the online world safely and confidently. A structured learning approach supports the development of essential technology skills while addressing the specific needs and concerns of older adults. To ensure success for participants, we are incorporating several key components:

• Basic digital skills, including email usage, internet browsing, and video calling fundamentals 
• Hands-on practice sessions in small group settings (6–8 participants), allowing seniors to learn at their own pace
• A safety-first curriculum, covering password management, scam awareness, and personal information protection
• Customized learning materials, such as large-print handouts and step-by-step visual guides

In recent years, tablets have emerged as powerful tools to bridge the digital gap. These devices offer intuitive touchscreen interfaces, customizable displays, and simplified navigation systems tailored to older users. Their portability and user-friendly features make them an ideal starting point for seniors entering the digital world. The impact of tablets extends beyond basic connectivity. They serve as gateways to:

• Virtual healthcare appointments
• Video calls with loved ones
• Digital entertainment options
• Medication management systems

Over the course of six weeks, participants will use tablets purchased through a grant from the Phoenix Foundation. Training is most effective when everyone uses the same equipment, operating systems, and applications—this consistency fosters shared learning and peer support.
The program will be facilitated by a volunteer. Our Society’s Secretary and resident tech expert, Barb Kowalik, will serve as the initial facilitator and support person. Barb is a certified GLUU facilitator (gluusociety.org) and brings over 40 years of experience as a computer instructor and training developer. She currently offers one-on-one tech support at the Midway Social Centre every Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.