7 takeaways from the pre-NetHui forum on research into digital inclusion in New Zealand
These quick points have stuck in my mind after a morning soaking up new research information on digital inclusion of seniors and other marginalised groups. Summaries came from the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), Auckland University of Technology (AUT), University of Victoria (VUW), The Association of Retirement Villages, and others. It was a fascinating morning.
- The government Blueprint for Digital Inclusion is a valuable document (my opinion) but it was based on old data. Much research is now underway or completed.
- Digital inclusion leaps in the group 75 years and older: people who didn’t use computers for most of their working life (DIA)
- Younger people are more susceptible to scams than older people (VUW)
- For 40% of over-65s, government superannuation is their sole income; 40% have up to $100 extra per week; and 20% have super plus more than $100 per week (Association of Retirement Villages / Price WaterHouse Cooper)
- DIA is researching this key question: How does digital inclusion relate to wellbeing/ waiora? This won’t be a simple answer.
- Among the most excluded from online activities are Pasifica people, the disabled, and those in social housing.
- Professor Miriam Lips of VUW outlined 7 types of senior internet users, what they’re like, and what they need. A report is due to be published next month.
Off I go to Day 1 of NetHui proper, including a keynote speech by Jacinda Adern and a discussion on Digital Inclusion of Seniors and Retirees chaired by Francesca Holibar and me.
It’s seriously cold outside but warm in Te Papa. My brain gets overloaded at a conference so I wandered around the Nature exhibition. Delicious.
I love museum displays of native water creatures: thanks Te Papa
Not being included because of the speed at which technology has grown is definitely a problem for seniors. But the young are most susceptible to scams – that seems odd. Did I misread?
No, you read that correctly.
Fascinating info. It’s great to keep the brain up to date, so to speak. I’m sure you must be a forerunner in this area? I hope you were able to both give and receive feedback?
Thanks, we had a lively session. Shortly I have to report back to 400 people. I find this role exhausting compared with performing!
Wow! Go you. And yes, exhausting. Kia kaha.
How expensive is internet access there? Is there free access for people in supported housing? I too was very surprised that more young people are susceptible to scams.
Our access is expensive. There is a move to provide free access for those and other disadvantaged users but it hasn’t happened yet. It’s needed.
That would seem to be a major impediment for the elderly.
My system too 🙂