The study, Tackling Digital Exclusion,found that 87 per cent of older people who are blind or partially sighted have never used the internet. Researchers attribute this to a perception amongst this group that blindness or low vision makes using computers and websites impossible. The report also identified that many respondents felt they didn’t have the necessary knowledge and skills to get online, and that a third of the people surveyed lack the accessibility software they need.
The research combined a survey of 150 blind and 150 partially sighted people over 65 who were not internet users, seven discussion groups and 70 face-to-face interviews. Author Angela Edwards also sought insight from those involved in training older people on computer and internet use.
Online participation for older people with disabilities is a huge problem globally, with exclusion from the internet preventing social interaction, access to health and social services, and information on news and current affairs. As the risk of becoming disabled increases heavily as people age, it is vital that seniors are equipped with the information they need to stay online despite any sensory, mobility or cognitive impairments that may develop over time.
Our partnership with the Council On The Ageing Western Australia (COTA WA) addresses this by providing resources which enable COTA WA member organisations to provide training for individuals on computer accessibility, assistive technology and social media.
Dr Scott Hollier, who authored the resources, said, “For seniors with disabilities, online participation is more than just accessing information, it’s about friendship and community participation both online and in the hundreds of seniors’ computer clubs around Australia.”
The Helping seniors get online resource is available to COTA WA members. It is also available as an audio bookwhich can be downloaded for free from the Geoff Gallop Digital Library.
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