Digital illiteracy has become a new disability

ECCV’s new research report has found that many older Australians, especially those from migrant backgrounds, are severely disadvantaged through the routine requirement for them to go online for vital information and services.

The digital divide has far-reaching consequences, which often result in poorer physical and mental health outcomes for older people, less control in their ability to make decisions and lead independent lives, an increased risk of elder abuse, and a greater vulnerability to exploitation and scams.

The report outlines the importance of a bipartite approach, where older people have access to digital literacy training and support, while alternatives to digital connection continue to be resourced and effective. Research shows that many seniors respond well to culturally appropriate face-to-face training and mentoring.

However, there is also a significant number of older people who will never become digitally literate and who require alternative avenues to access information and services, such as paper-based, phone-based and face-to-face options.

‘The digital divide: Impacts of older people from migrant communities’ report puts forward a suite of 12 recommendations to bridge the digital divide and enhance quality of life for older Australians. These include:

• Proactively consulting with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds and their representative bodies for the development of the Australian Data and Digital Government Strategy
• Providing essential information by engaging trusted community leaders and ethno-specific/multicultural organisations
• Promoting information and services through ethnic media
• Co-designing digital literacy training programs with older people from migrant and refugee backgrounds
• Developing, monitoring and enforcing ethical guidelines for the use of AI in the care and support of older Australians

Quotes attributable to ECCV Chairperson Eddie Micallef:

“Digital illiteracy has become a new disability, especially for older people who are already facing barriers such as low literacy in English and their own language.

“Many older people will never become digitally literate so we must continue to provide digital alternatives. We need proactive policies, programs and services that prioritise the human rights and quality of life of all seniors so that no one is left behind.”