I’m helping older people learn digital skills to reconnect with the world during lockdown

Over two-thirds of all digital exclusion is among those aged 65 and over, says Katherine Tanko. That’s why we are helping these vulnerable people get online and back in touch with their friends and family

Many older people struggle to use digital technology such as tablets (Rex Features)

Schoolchildren aren’t the only ones who need access to the internet during the pandemic. Thousands of older people are also cut off from the outside world due to digital poverty.

When we first met 68-year-old Michael last year he had never used a computer before. He had no idea what “swiping” meant and thought “tapping” was a form of dance. Despite a difficult life marked by long term physical and mental health issues, he was still curious to learn. But with little income, no device, and no one to teach him, it didn't seem likely to happen.  

He needed a lot of support to get there, but now Michael wields his new tablet with confidence and pride. He can turn it on and tap the apps he likes – the news and the racing mostly.