Commentary: In our rush to become a Smart Nation, don’t leave the elderly behind

HELPING THE ELDERLY ON ALL FRONTS

Digital isolation is a vicious cycle for the elderly: The more digitally excluded they become and feel, the less likely they are to adopt new tech and digital services as they come.

Government initiatives should continue to prioritise investing in digital literacy training for the elderly, but such programmes need to be accessible and practical, focusing on basic digital skills like safely navigating apps and online transactions.

Grassroots support from community centres and voluntary welfare organisations has been crucial in providing ongoing support and workshops for the elderly, but more can be done.

While senior citizen corners aim to address social isolation, “digital citizen corners” could be established to provide seniors with digital access and guidance. Targeting those living alone as well as digitally isolated individuals living with others would widen the reach of these programmes.

Subsidies are available to make smartphones and internet access more affordable for the elderly, but many seniors remain unaware of these or how to apply for them. Public education campaigns, like road shows, can better inform the elderly and their families about aid avenues like these.

Some elderly may require more personalised assistance or “hand-holding” from community centres or grassroots volunteers to guide them through setting up accounts on various platforms and understanding their usage. 

Tech companies can also improve seniors’ digital experiences by creating clear, straightforward interfaces with distinct icons and minimal menu layers. Tasks like making calls or sending messages should require only a few taps.

In-built features such as voice commands and smart prompts that offer step-by-step guidance can also make apps more user-friendly for seniors. 

DIGITAL INCLUSIVENESS

The elderly themselves must be open and willing to engage in efforts to help them adapt to digitalisation. To this end, family support can go a long way where external outreach programmes fall short.

In this, we must move away from stigmatising the elderly. For instance, scams are a risk we all face, regardless of age or tech-savvy. Guide our elderly, but give them the space to build their confidence in digital spaces without excessive oversight or control.

In an increasingly digitalised world, ensuring that our elderly are not left behind is only the beginning. Today’s tech-savvy youth will age and may one day find themselves in need of the same support. 

By cultivating a national mindset of digital inclusiveness, we can protect our current elderly but also lay the foundation for a future where every Singaporean, regardless of age or other barriers, can confidently navigate the digital future.

Dr Lim Boon Leng is a psychiatrist at the Gleneagles Medical Centre.