Seniors GO APP!

<< Background >>Over the past decade, efforts to improve the digital literacy of older citizens have focused on personal computers. However, the Seniors GO APP project has shifted the focus to mobile literacy. Statistics show that many older people do not have access to personal computers. However, mobile devices are very popular among the elderly, with 90% of mobile Internet access in 2019. Mobile apps meet the needs of the elderly in various industries. Our project addresses the challenge of low smartphone ownership among the elderly, providing motivation and training. We have developed a mobile application that offers virtual care to the elderly who have difficulties with specific applications, an innovative approach to improve digital literacy.<< Objectives >>Our overall goal was to improve the digital skills of 65+ people in the use of devices, apps and mobile technology. The pandemic has highlighted a vital role in technology in isolation and resilient future. We wanted to achieve these 3 specific objectives:1. We trained and supported seniors in mobile digital literacy and digital inclusion.2. We have created a MOOC for educators and volunteers to assist elderly people in mobile digital literacy.3. We have developed an app for the elderly, making them autonomous in the use of services.<< Implementation >>An analysis of the target audience of direct beneficiaries (aged over 65), their needs, challenges, motivations and limitations was carried out. We organized a workshop to develop content and learning methodologies for an open source digital course aimed at educators and trainers for the mobile digital literacy of senior users. Immediately afterwards, we organised local pilot courses to validate the content and methodology implemented and monitored the impact on learners. Then we implemented the digital course and finally we developed a virtual support application.<< Results >>The concrete realisations and outcomes of the project were: 1) An Open Source Online Course for educators and trainers to provide the skills, methodology, language, teaching material targeted at successful learners aged 65+. 2) A mobile application for virtual assistance to senior users to help them overcome their difficulties in managing a list of the most useful applications for their daily life. However, the main impact was the empowerment of seniors in the digital transition, which improved and will continue to improve their lives with useful services.