The shift to online services has posed significant challenges for over-60s, with one-third finding it harder to manage daily tasks like banking and appointments, as revealed by Age UK. Many older people find digital-first solutions ageist and struggle without access to in-person or phone-based services. This creates barriers, undermining independence and increasing costs for essential services, such as insurance and phone contracts, highlighting the digital divide in the UK.
Efforts to alleviate these issues include banking hubs and a Digital Inclusion Action Plan aimed at improving skills and confidence among older individuals. Age UK advocates for a legal right to offline access, ensuring dignity and comfort for non-internet users. This move is crucial for tackling the systemic inefficiencies in service delivery and ensures equal access for all age groups.
Key Takeaways:
- Over-60s find managing online banking and healthcare services challenging.
- A shift to digital services increases costs and hinders accessibility for many older individuals.
- Age UK seeks a legal right for offline access to safeguard older adults’ independence.
For further insights, review the original article here. How do you think digital inclusion can be improved to better serve all age groups? Let us know your thoughts!
