How AltNets help older people live better lives

The internet belongs everyone. But unfortunately, there is still a large number of people excluded from experiencing its benefits. Around 8% of the UK population can’t perform basic digital tasks, and over three-quarters (76%) of those are aged 65 or over.

These digitally excluded elder citizens struggle to send emails, set up social media accounts, and access essential online services with their bank or GP.

Thankfully, things are changing for the better. Charities, local authorities, and AltNet internet providers are banding together to offer free digital skills training to older people.

So with all that in mind, here’s a look at how the internet and AltNets are helping older people live happier, safer, and more independent lives.

Keeping the brain ‘young.’

According to a study from Lancaster University Management School, using the internet during your golden years boosts cognitive function. The study, published in the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, showed that those who use the internet after retirement scored significantly better in a series of mental tests than seniors with no or minimal digital skills. In some cases, the tech-savvy seniors performed twice as better at memory and word recall.

“We encourage every senior to get online, no matter how advanced in years they might be,” said Dr Vincent O’Sullivan, a senior researcher at Lancaster University Management School. “It’s never too late to learn something new. It’s great for the brain and significantly reduces cognitive decline.”

Staying active

Paul Butcher, from Redditch, West Midlands, 68, didn’t take well to retirement. Having worked full-time since he was 15 years old, Paul quickly became bored.

“Retirement was hard. I’m a worker, always have been,” says Paul. “I feel guilty when I’m not doing anything. Without a sense of purpose, a task to complete, I just didn’t feel like myself. I was down in the dumps for a long time.”

Then Paul heard about a website called eBay. A neighbour said she was making decent money from it by selling second-hand clothes and shoes.

Paul loves browsing charity shops and car boot sales, so he decided to give this eBay thing a go for himself.

“It took me a few days to set up an email address, and figuring out eBay took weeks,” says Paul. “But you should see me now; I’m a real whizz. I upload photos, write catchy descriptions, and print all my postage labels at home.”

“I can pick up trainers at the car boot for a fiver and sell them on eBay for as much as £20. Last month, I sold a pair of Doc Martin boots for £80; I paid £6 for them. My wife and I don’t need the money. But it’s always nice to have a little extra. More importantly, I have a hobby now, something to keep me busy. I’m myself again.”

Connecting with loved ones

We didn’t take many positives out of the COVID-19 lockdowns. However, they did encourage older people to embrace digital technology and apps, including Zoom and Facetime. For many seniors, it was the only way they saw their loved ones for months.

Now that the lockdowns are (hopefully) behind us forever, seniors continue to enjoy the benefits of the internet. And their unique take on things is providing some truly golden moments.

Last year, a British grandma’s Facebook post went viral after responding to one of her granddaughter’s updates. Aggrieved at waking up before 7.00 am for her new job, the youngster posted, “I. Hate. WAKING. UP. Early.”

And to that, granny said, “Me too…but it’s better than dying in your sleep…so be thankful… now have a good day…I love you!”

Priceless!

How Altnets are helping connect seniors to the internet

AltNets play a crucial role in providing high-speed internet access to the digital excluded, including older people.

These new networks are popping up in towns and villages with poor or zero connectivity. And more importantly, they’re delivering fast and reliable internet at prices anyone can afford.

Some AltNets have gone even further. 6Ginternet, an AltNet provider based in the North West, donates a large part of its network coverage to Age UK Blackburn with Darwen. The charity uses it to provide free internet and digital skills training to local older adults.

“Lack of affordable broadband is one of the main factors that lead to digital exclusion amongst older people,” says an Age UK Blackburn with Darwen spokesperson.

“Working with 6G Internet means we can help older people get connected free of charge. This allows them to experience the many benefits of digital technology, such as keeping in touch with friends and family, shopping online, and using health services online.”

The internet is for everyone. And there’s no reason why anyone (and especially older folks) should miss out on using it.

How AltNets help older people live better lives

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