Supporting Older Adults in the Digital Age
As I mentioned in a previous post, I’m currently coaching patrons and teaching tech classes at my local library. Many of the library's patrons are senior citizens.
In our increasingly digital world, it’s easy to overlook a significant challenge facing older adults: the rapid pace of technological change. Many seniors find themselves missing critical tech skills, whether they need to navigate the internet, use basic productivity tools, or make the most of their mobile devices. I’ve noticed this gap and its implications, from missed opportunities for connection to vulnerability to scams.
The Risk of Scams: A Cautionary Tale
One experience that stands out involved a patron who needed help with a subscription to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ). They had purchased a discounted subscription from a third-party company, only to find that the information provided didn’t work. Attempts to contact the company led to an answering machine, leaving the patron frustrated and concerned. The deal seemed legitimate to the patron because it was paid for via PayPal, but it quickly became clear that this was not a trustworthy transaction. This situation highlights a growing problem: seniors are increasingly targeted by scams that exploit…
